The Police Command in Odo State has begun investigating allegations of extortion against Ganiyu Dauda, the department police officer (DPO) responsible for the Ifedore local government area Igbara-Oke. The investigation comes after a protest held by community residents on Friday, April 11, when he accused the DPO and its agents of extorting money from locals.
The protesters were seen as carrying leaves on their backs, blocking the main path to the community to show that they were dissatisfied with the alleged blackmail. The protests have attracted attention to the activities of local police and raised concerns among residents.
A spokesman for DSP Olushola Ayanlade confirmed that the allegations have been investigated. He urged anyone with information about the blackmail claim to come forward and assist in the investigation.
“The command has investigated the details of the activity and the alleged blackmail. Although no one has made any reports of allegations against the DPO, anyone with specific evidence against the DPO or any of us or that facts should be raised by any of us,” Ayanlade said.
He further assured the public that the results of the investigation will be well-known for law-abiding behavior and called on the people of the country to abide by the law.
The protests were reportedly triggered by some members of the Driving Staff Union with police officers towed the Igbara-Oke subdivision police station. Ayanlade explained that the issue has been resolved due to the intervention of the local government chairperson.
