Residents and motorists in Calabar, Cross River State, have accused some police officers of allegedly extorting money from commercial drivers at a checkpoint near the Post Office complex.
The motorists alleged that the officers, reportedly linked to Atakpa Police Station, block the road every evening and demand between ₦200 and ₦500 from taxi and commercial bus drivers heading towards Watt Market.
According to some drivers, the alleged practice has become a daily occurrence, particularly during peak hours. They claimed that motorists who refuse to pay are sometimes delayed, harassed or threatened with having their vehicles impounded.
One taxi driver, who spoke anonymously, said the situation had become a burden on commercial drivers, adding that the payments were eventually reflected in transport fares paid by passengers.
Another motorist, Effiom Effiong, alleged that the checkpoint also contributes to traffic congestion and unnecessary harassment along the route.
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A resident, Emmanuel Bassey, described the alleged practice as unacceptable, urging the police authorities to address the situation and ensure officers focus on maintaining security rather than collecting money from motorists.
The allegations come amid warnings by the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo-Geoffrey Ordue, against extortion and other forms of unprofessional conduct by police officers.
Reacting to the allegations, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the command does not condone extortion and urged members of the public to provide credible evidence to aid investigation.
He advised motorists to record details such as the patrol vehicle number, time and location whenever an officer allegedly demands money.
Eitokpah assured that any officer found guilty of extortion would face disciplinary action.
He also provided the police complaint response line, +234 813 708 3052, urging members of the public to report such incidents through the appropriate channels.
The police command reiterated its commitment to professionalism and due process, while calling on residents and motorists to report any officer found engaging in misconduct
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