Critic Arrested for Claiming Police Chief Took N4.2m Bribe

A social critic, Justice Ozobi, was arrested for accusing the commissioner of police in Ebonyi State of taking a N4.2 million bribe.

The police spokesperson in Ebonyi State, Joshua Ukandu, shared this news in a statement on Friday.

On 31 August, Mr Ozobi, who lives in Anambra State, claimed on Facebook that the commissioner collected N700,000 from six families. This adds up to N4.2 million, which he said was to free their sons who were arrested.

Mr Ozobi alleged that the suspects were detained over a land dispute involving some villagers and Sunday Oketa, the traditional ruler of Oroko Onuoha Community in Abakiliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

He also claimed that officers from the State Criminal Investigation Department released the suspects after the families paid the bribes. Later, they were rearrested and taken to court.

In the statement on Friday, Superintendent Ukandu reminded the public that the police in Ebonyi had previously denied the claims against the commissioner.

He noted that Mr Ozobi was arrested in Anambra State and brought to Ebonyi State for questioning regarding his accusations.

Mr Ukandu pointed out that the social critic used a photo of a former commissioner of police in Ebonyi State. He said this caused the retired officer unnecessary public shame and embarrassment.

According to PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Ozobi admitted in another post that using the former commissioner’s photo was wrong. He mentioned that he had removed it from his earlier post.

Still, he maintained that he stood by his claims of bribery against the police.

Mr Ukandu emphasized that while the police respect people's right to free speech, they will not accept false or damaging information meant to harm the reputation of the police command.

He called on Nigerians to verify information before sharing it and to take genuine complaints to the right authorities for fair and quick investigation.

“The Command is dedicated to accountability. We will keep holding our officers to the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and ethical behavior,” he said.