Lagos, Nigeria – A video circulating online has sparked widespread condemnation after a police officer was seen demanding ₦5,000 or fuel from motorists, falsely claiming it was for the Electronically Controlled Motorized Vehicle Report (eCMR)—a policy already suspended by the Lagos State Government.
What Happened?
📍 Location: Unspecified checkpoint in Lagos
📹 Video Evidence: Officer insists motorists must pay ₦5,000 or provide fuel, alleging it was for eCMR compliance.
🚗 Victim Accounts: Multiple drivers reported similar extortion attempts across different checkpoints.
What is eCMR?
- eCMR (Electronically Controlled Motorized Vehicle Report) was introduced to digitize vehicle documentation.
- Lagos State suspended enforcement after public outcry over its abrupt implementation.
- Police have no legal authority to demand payments for eCMR.
Public Reaction
🔥 Social Media Fury:
- #EndPoliceExtortion trends as Nigerians share similar experiences.
- “This is pure robbery in uniform!” – Twitter user @NaijaDriver.
🗣️ Victim Testimony:
- “I argued, but he threatened to impound my car. I had to give ₦3,000 to pass.” – Anonymous driver.
Police Response
🚨 Lagos Police PRO, SP Benjamin Hundeyin:
- “We are investigating the video. Any officer found extorting will face disciplinary action.”
- “The eCMR is not enforced by the police. Citizens should report such incidents immediately.”
Why This Matters
✔ Illegal Extortion: Police exploiting suspended policies for personal gain.
✔ Growing Distrust: Repeated cases erode public confidence in law enforcement.
✔ Economic Burden: Motorists already struggling with fuel costs face additional harassment.
What Should You Do?
🚨 If Stopped Illegally:
- Remain calm but do not pay bribes.
- Record the interaction (discreetly if necessary).
- Report to @LagosPoliceNG or call 08033002060.
Next Steps
🔍 Internal Investigation: Police vow to identify and punish the officer.
📢 Public Awareness: NGOs and transport unions plan campaigns against extortion.
#EndSARSFlashback #StopPoliceExtortion #LagosTrafficHarassment
Update: The Lagos State Government has reiterated that eCMR enforcement remains suspended and warned against fraudulent demands.
Editor’s Note: Share your experiences safely. Avoid confrontations but document incidents for evidence.
(Sources: Lagos Police Command, Citizen Reports, Online Footage)
