The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has issued a stern warning to residents against the practice of offering bribes or inducements to police officers while they are carrying out their official duties. This practice, the command emphasizes, is illegal and undermines the integrity of law enforcement operations. The notice, disseminated via social media, underscores the importance of allowing officers to execute their responsibilities without interference. It encourages citizens to report any instances of unprofessional conduct or solicitations for bribes through established channels, including the Complaint Response Unit and the FCT Police emergency line. This public declaration reinforces the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to integrity and seeks public cooperation in fostering a safer society.
The FCT Police Command’s cautionary notice comes against the backdrop of persistent concerns regarding bribery and extortion involving security personnel throughout Nigeria. Numerous reports have documented cases where citizens, particularly motorists, are coerced into paying bribes at checkpoints or during routine patrols. This deeply ingrained practice erodes public trust in law enforcement and perpetuates a culture of corruption. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has echoed the Force’s zero-tolerance stance against extortion, impunity, and corruption, underscoring the commitment to address this systemic issue. The FCT Command’s public statement serves as a further reinforcement of this commitment at the local level.
Over the years, several high-profile incidents involving police officers engaging in corrupt practices have come to light, some captured on video and widely circulated on social media. These cases have prompted disciplinary actions against the officers involved, ranging from demotion to dismissal. For instance, in May 2024, an Inspector in Imo State was demoted after video evidence surfaced showing him accepting bribes from motorists. Similarly, in April 2025, disciplinary proceedings were initiated against officers recorded receiving money from a Chinese national. These instances, while highlighting the problem, also demonstrate the police force’s efforts to hold its members accountable for their actions.
The pervasiveness of bribery within the police force has contributed to a climate of distrust and undermines the rule of law. Citizens often feel compelled to pay bribes to avoid harassment, expedite processes, or evade consequences for minor infractions. This creates an uneven playing field, where those with the means to pay bribes can circumvent the justice system, while those who cannot afford to do so are disproportionately affected. Moreover, this culture of bribery weakens the effectiveness of law enforcement, as officers may prioritize personal gain over their duty to protect and serve the public.
Despite the challenges posed by widespread corruption, there are encouraging instances of police officers upholding their integrity and refusing to accept bribes. Such cases, though often overshadowed by reports of misconduct, offer a glimpse into the potential for positive change within the police force. In February 2025, officers in Imo State rejected a substantial bribe offered in connection with child trafficking cases, leading to the arrest of the suspects. Another commendable example involved an officer in charge of the Special Weapons and Tactics Unit who refused a bribe to release an armed robbery suspect. These examples underscore the importance of recognizing and commending officers who demonstrate ethical conduct and resist the temptation of corruption.
The FCT Police Command’s call for citizens to refrain from offering bribes and to report instances of misconduct is a crucial step towards fostering a more accountable and transparent police force. Combating corruption within law enforcement requires a multi-pronged approach, including robust internal oversight mechanisms, effective disciplinary procedures, and public awareness campaigns. Equally important is the active participation of citizens in reporting instances of corruption and holding officers accountable for their actions. The success of these efforts hinges on building trust between the police and the communities they serve, creating a mutually reinforcing cycle of accountability and integrity. The FCT Command’s message represents a positive step in that direction, signaling a commitment to fostering a culture of ethical conduct within the force and promoting a more just and equitable society.
