Public outrage has erupted after a viral video showed a police officer demanding ₦5,000 or five litres of fuel from motorists unable to present Electronic Central Motor Registry (ECMR) documents - despite the scheme's suspension.
The footage, shared by X user Teniola (@Teeniiola), captures the officer stopping vehicles along the Benin Bypass. When confronted about the suspended ECMR enforcement, the officer allegedly responded: "You can make your calls," before demanding payment.
"Give me five litres of fuel or ₦5,000," the officer is heard saying in the video. When a motorist protested there were no nearby filling stations, he replied: "We will go and buy it."
Delta State Police spokesperson SP Edafe Bright condemned the incident as "embarrassing," vowing to identify and discipline the officer. "All these policemen bringing shame to us will be sent out of the organization," Bright tweeted.
The ECMR registration, introduced to combat vehicle theft, was suspended in July 2024 after widespread complaints about extortion. Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun had ordered the suspension following public outcry.
This latest incident has reignited concerns about police misconduct on Nigerian roads. Social media users expressed frustration, with many sharing similar experiences of unlawful demands at checkpoints.
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"This is why people lose trust in the police," commented one Twitter user. "How can they keep enforcing a suspended policy just to collect money?"
The police command has promised a thorough investigation, urging victims to come forward with evidence. They reminded the public that ECMR enforcement remains suspended and no fines should be paid for non-compliance.
Legal experts note that demanding money for a suspended regulation constitutes extortion, punishable under Nigerian law. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in police reform efforts across the country.
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