The Lagos State Police Command has launched an investigation into allegations that officials of the Lagos State Task Force extorted money from motorists after a video accusing the officers of misconduct went viral on social media.
The video, which circulated widely online on Saturday, claimed that officers attached to the task force, allegedly led by CSP Adetayo Akerele, were involved in a scheme to frame motorists for traffic violations in order to extort money from them.
In the footage, a driver alleged that a task force officer took control of his vehicle and deliberately positioned it on a one-way road to fabricate a traffic offence.
The narrator in the video further claimed that the officer later demanded money from the driver to prevent the vehicle from being impounded.
According to the voice in the video, he eventually paid ₦150,000 to avoid further penalties, adding that other motorists had reportedly made similar payments under comparable circumstances.
Reacting to the development, the Lagos State Police Command acknowledged the circulating video and confirmed that an investigation had been ordered.
In a statement shared on its official X account on Sunday, the command said the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, had directed a comprehensive inquiry into the allegations.
“The attention of the Lagos State Police Command has been drawn to the video currently circulating online,” the statement said.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered an immediate investigation into the matter.
The Command appreciates members of the public for bringing this to our attention and assures that appropriate action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.”
The latest allegations are part of a growing number of complaints by members of the public regarding the conduct of the Lagos State Task Force.
Earlier in March, media reports and social media posts highlighted similar claims of aggressive enforcement by task force officials, including allegations that motorists were directed to make illegal manoeuvres and later accused of committing traffic offences.
Some complainants also alleged that officers demanded cash payments before releasing impounded vehicles.
The police command assured residents that the investigation would address the claims and determine whether disciplinary or legal action would be taken against any officer found culpable.
