How Enugu State Police Kidnapped and Extorted ₦62 Million from Business Man

A disturbing case of police corruption has surfaced in Enugu State, where officers of the Nigeria Police Force allegedly kidnapped and extorted N62 million from a businessman after falsely labeling him a member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

According to Sahara Reporters, the victim, Mr. Olu Agwu, was abducted on December 26, 2024, in Abiriba, Abia State. He was blindfolded and taken to the anti-kidnapping unit of the Enugu State Police Command, where he was held for three days under harsh conditions. Investigations revealed that officers fabricated a petition against him, falsely accusing him of kidnapping his friend, Mgboj Michael Umeh, and associating with IPOB/ESN.

The officers initially demanded N400 million but later reduced the amount, coercing Agwu into paying N62 million under threats of being charged with terrorism—a charge that could have dire consequences. Security sources disclosed that the payments were made to multiple accounts linked to senior police officers, including a N20 million transfer to the Commissioner of Police. Even after his release, he was reportedly pressured to pay an additional N100 million or risk being declared wanted.

During his ordeal, Agwu was denied contact with his family or legal counsel. His traditional ruler, Eze Ukpari, was allegedly warned not to intervene. To further intimidate him, the officers falsely claimed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was waiting to arrest him. Sahara Reporters obtained audio recordings in which police officers were heard discussing the extortion, with one stating that the case would be dropped if Agwu paid the full amount.

The Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer has denied knowledge of the case, and efforts to reach the Commissioner of Police have been unsuccessful. The incident has sparked public outrage, with growing calls for an independent investigation into police corruption and abuse of power in Nigeria.