A disturbing incident in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has sparked widespread outrage after a man recorded police officers confronting a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member near Christ's School. The eyewitness, who shared the video on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, April 28, alleged that the officers profiled the corps member based on his car ownership and attempted to seize his phone when he began recording.
Witness Account of the Incident
Speaking in Yoruba, the eyewitness claimed the officers targeted the young man simply because he had access to a car, while they did not. He expressed frustration that after years of service, many police officers still struggle financially. "They cannot just sight a young man with a car, because they don't have one," he said. "They'll work for 40 years and yet not own a car. They are just working and have nothing to show for it. All they know is to harass people."
The witness further stated that the officers attempted to stop him from recording the scene and tried to take his phone. Bystanders encouraged him to continue filming and expose the officers online, with one person heard saying, "Video them very well and post it online." The witness repeatedly warned the corps member not to go with the officers, shouting, "No follow them go anywhere."
Online Reactions and Public Outcry
The video quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from Nigerians who questioned police conduct and raised concerns over harassment. Many users expressed dismay at the officers' behavior and called for accountability.
- @myownsay1 wrote: "What is wrong with us in this country? Who do us like this? Like, we can't be civil for once?"
- @HunchoMickee said: "I Dey find one Nigeria police officer make dem come whine if I Dey on my khaki me wey soldier train for 3 weeks."
- @vhiktri commented: "These police people are always on the wrong side of the Internet; this is so worrisome. If you must, at least be civil."
- @Reels_Xtra offered a different perspective: "What is essence of recording it if not chasing cl0ut for public attention and payout only? Nigerian police are not problem but Nigerian always want to use them to chase cl0ut always. Respect government officials Nigerian. ENOUGH is ENOUGH"
- @skood009 recalled: "When I was in Ekiti last November, they had these police outfits on the road. They did not even look like officers and were quick to profile you if they thought you were a yahoo boy or girl. I knew they would eventually oppress Ekiti citizens."
Broader Context of Police Conduct
This incident is not isolated. Previously, reports emerged of a young man named Ben Agir who died after allegedly being beaten by vigilantes in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State over suspected motorcycle theft. The victim was reportedly beaten into a coma after vigilantes refused to listen to his explanation. Such cases highlight ongoing concerns about security forces and extrajudicial actions in Nigeria.
The video has reignited debates about police reform and the treatment of citizens, with many calling for better training and accountability. As the situation unfolds, the public awaits official response from authorities.
