THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has warned residents against offering money or any form of inducement to police officers while they are performing their official duties, stressing that the practice is unlawful and undermines effective law enforcement.
News Point Nigeria reports that in a public advisory posted on X.com on Monday, the command reiterated that both giving and receiving bribes or inducements during duty hours amount to a criminal offence.
The statement read: “It is unlawful to give our officers money or any form of inducement while they are performing their duty. Let them discharge their responsibilities diligently, without interference.”
The police further urged residents to channel complaints about misconduct or unprofessional behaviour through the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) or by contacting the FCT Police emergency lines, assuring that every report would be treated with seriousness.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to serving you with integrity. Your cooperation is vital; together, we can build a safer society,” the statement added.
The advisory comes amid recurring concerns about bribery and extortion involving security operatives across Nigeria. Over the years, motorists, traders, and residents have frequently complained about being pressured into giving “tips” or “settlements” to officers at checkpoints, during traffic stops, or routine patrols.
While the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has repeatedly emphasized the Force’s zero tolerance for corruption, extortion, and impunity, incidents of misconduct by officers continue to surface.
Several officers have faced sanctions in recent years after being caught in acts of bribery.
In May 2024, an Inspector attached to the Imo State Command was demoted after being filmed extorting motorists along the Owerri–Onitsha Expressway.
In April 2025, the Force condemned a viral video showing policemen collecting money from a Chinese national, describing the act as “unprofessional and unethical.” Disciplinary actions followed.
At the same time, the police have highlighted examples of integrity within the ranks.
In February 2025, officers in Imo State rejected a ₦1 million bribe from suspects involved in child trafficking cases.
In August 2025, a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) commander, Ebong Thompson, reportedly turned down ₦800,000 offered to secure the release of an armed robbery suspect.
These contrasting cases underscore what the police leadership describes as the “battle for integrity” within the force.
With the Command’s renewed emphasis on integrity, residents of the FCT are being reminded that a bribe is not a tip, it is a crime.