Legal practitioner, Barrister Hamza Dantani, has raised concerns over what he described as the alleged commercialisation of police investigations and activities at some police stations across Nigeria.
Dantani made the allegation while expressing concern over reported demands for money from both complainants and suspects during police investigations.
According to the lawyer, Nigerians who are invited or arrested by the police may allegedly be asked to make payments after giving their statements before they are released.
“Police stations in Nigeria are now looking like profit-making companies. Both the complainant and the suspect have to pay money,” Dantani stated.
He further alleged that after an individual has been invited or arrested and has completed giving a statement, the person could allegedly become a source of money, with payments demanded in connection with bail or the complaint.
Dantani described the alleged practice as unacceptable, stressing that citizens should not be subjected to unlawful charges simply because they have reported a matter or have been invited by law enforcement authorities.
He said such practices, where they occur, undermine the principles of justice, accountability and due process.
The lawyer’s comments have renewed concerns over police accountability and the treatment of citizens who interact with law enforcement agencies.
The Nigeria Police Force has previously maintained that police bail is free and has warned officers against demanding money from members of the public in exchange for bail.
However, payments associated with a criminal case are not necessarily illegal in every circumstance, as certain court-related fees, recognisance requirements or other legally authorised expenses may apply depending on the case.
Dantani’s comments therefore constitute allegations about practices he said he had observed or received complaints about and should not be interpreted as an accusation against every police officer or police station in Nigeria.
The allegations have nevertheless renewed calls for greater transparency, accountability and respect for citizens’ rights within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
Citizens who experience alleged extortion or other forms of police misconduct are encouraged to document relevant details and report such incidents through appropriate official channels.
