Student Accuses Police of ₦150,000 Extortion Over Cryptocurrency Apps

A student from Ekiti State University (EKSU) has alleged that police officers in Lagos extorted ₦150,000 from him and his friends during a stop-and-search operation at Ojota. The student, who shared his experience online but chose to remain anonymous, claimed the officers became aggressive after discovering cryptocurrency applications on his phone.  

In his account, the student said the officers stopped their vehicle at multiple checkpoints and demanded to inspect his phone. Despite his compliance, one officer allegedly grabbed the phone and, upon finding trading apps and WhatsApp groups linked to cryptocurrency, accused him of engaging in illegal activities.  

“They claimed cryptocurrency is illegal in Nigeria and insisted I follow them to their station unless I paid ₦200,000,” he wrote.  

The student detailed how the situation escalated. After instructing the Uber driver to leave, the officers reportedly forced him and his friend into their tinted Sienna vehicle, where they were allegedly assaulted. Fearing for his safety, the student tried to negotiate the amount, explaining he could not afford ₦200,000 as a student.  

“They eventually demanded ₦150,000 and took me to a POS operator, where I was forced to make the transfer,” he recounted, adding that the money was meant for his school fees. He claimed to have proof of the payment, including the POS receipt and account number.  

The incident has sparked outrage online, with many condemning the officers’ actions. The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has since directed the Lagos Police Command to investigate the matter and identify the officers involved.  

This case has once again brought attention to allegations of police misconduct and extortion in Nigeria, fueling calls for accountability and reform within the force.