The Nigeria Police Force has challenged social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence supporting his recent allegations.
NBG Africa reported that VeryDarkMan made the claims during the Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Port Harcourt. He alleged that some police officers at highway checkpoints assist kidnappers.
According to him, officers allegedly identify wealthy travellers and share their movements with criminals. In a statement released and signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, the police rejected VeryDarkMan’s claims as unsubstantiated. 
Police Reject VeryDarkMan’s Allegations
The Force said it takes allegations against its personnel seriously. However, it described VeryDarkMan’s claims as unfair and damaging without supporting evidence.
The police insisted that officers at checkpoints work to prevent crime and protect travellers. It also highlighted attacks against its personnel by kidnappers, terrorists and other violent criminals.
“Allegations of this gravity demand a corresponding standard of evidence,” the Force said.
The police added that its officers have been ambushed, attacked and killed while performing their duties.
Force Defends Officers Against Blanket Accusations
The police also defended the thousands of officers working across Nigeria. It acknowledged that many officers operate under difficult, underfunded and dangerous conditions.
According to the Force, officers at checkpoints often face the same criminals they are expected to stop. It warned that broad accusations could damage the morale of officers who serve with integrity. However, the police clarified that it would not protect officers found guilty of misconduct.
“Where individual officers are found to have compromised their duty, they will face the full weight of internal discipline and the law,” it stated.
The Force therefore urged the public to distinguish between individual wrongdoing and institutional complicity.
Police Invite VeryDarkMan to Submit Evidence
The police have formally challenged VeryDarkMan to substantiate his claims. The Force specifically requested evidence showing that checkpoint officers identify wealthy travellers.
It also wants evidence that officers transmit travellers’ details to kidnappers. The police promised to investigate any credible information submitted.
“Any such information will be treated with urgency and investigated thoroughly,” the Force said.
It further encouraged members of the public to report suspected misconduct through official channels.
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Police Warn Against Unverified Security Claims
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability. It said credible allegations would continue to receive proper investigations. However, it warned against spreading unverified claims involving national security institutions.
According to the police, legitimate criticism can strengthen accountability. Unsubstantiated allegations, however, could undermine public confidence and national security.
The response now puts the spotlight on VeryDarkMan to provide evidence supporting his claims.
Read the full statement released by the Nigeria Police Force below:
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