Police Nab Man Over Alleged N4.2m Extortion Claim Against Ebonyi CP

By Uchenna Okah, Abakaliki

The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested Mr. Justice Ozobi and an alleged accomplice over claims that the Commissioner of Police collected N700,000 each from six families to secure the release of their sons.

The Command said the allegation, which amounts to N4.2 million involving the six families, was false and misleading, stressing that it had earlier categorically refuted the claim.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, the Command said Ozobi allegedly made the accusation against the Commissioner of Police and used the photograph of a former Commissioner of Police in the state in his post.

According to the police, the use of the retired officer’s photograph subjected him to unwarranted public ridicule and embarrassment.

The Command disclosed that Ozobi was arrested in Anambra State and subsequently brought to the Ebonyi State Police Command in Abakaliki for investigation.

It said further updates would be made available as the investigation progresses, assuring members of the public that the matter would be handled in accordance with the law.

The police, however, stressed that citizens remained free to express their views, raise genuine concerns and make constructive observations aimed at improving policing in Ebonyi State.

The Command said it respected the right to freedom of expression but would not tolerate the deliberate dissemination of what it described as false, malicious or defamatory information intended to tarnish the image of the Command and the Nigeria Police Force.

It added that such information could also impugn the integrity of police officers and undermine public confidence in the efforts and sacrifices of personnel working to maintain peace and security.

The Command reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, saying it would continue to hold its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and ethical conduct.

It consequently urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it, particularly through social media platforms, to avoid spreading unverified claims.

The police also advised anyone with genuine complaints against its personnel to channel them through the appropriate authorities and established complaint mechanisms for prompt and impartial investigation.

The Command assured residents of its continued commitment to professional policing, accountability and the protection of public confidence in the Force.