An investigation has uncovered a troubling pattern within the Enugu Police Command, where high-profile individuals are allegedly being falsely labeled as members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or Eastern Security Network (ESN) as part of an extortion scheme.
According to a journalist, investigation, Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kanayo Uzuegbu, is accused of endorsing this tactic to extort money and silence opposition voices.
The Case of Mr. Olu Agwu
One such victim, Mr. Olu Agwu, was reportedly abducted from his village in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, on December 26, 2024. He was allegedly handcuffed, blindfolded, and taken to the Enugu State Police Command’s anti-kidnapping unit, where he was detained under harsh conditions for three days
Agwu was reportedly coerced into paying N62 million into various accounts linked to senior police officials. The police claimed Agwu was an IPOB/ESN member involved in the alleged kidnapping of his friend, Mgboji Michael Umeh, who had been deported from Vietnam.
Investigation Uncovers Extortion Scheme
Newsmen’ investigation revealed the involvement of the anti-kidnapping squad and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team in the extortion scheme. The police allegedly used fake accounts and intermediaries to collect the payments while threatening to kill Agwu or label him as an IPOB/ESN member if he failed to pay an additional N100 million.
Audio, Video Evidence, and Witness Accounts
Audio and video recordings obtained by newsmen captured conversations in which police officers allegedly demanded payment from Agwu and threatened to declare him wanted if he did not comply. Witness testimonies also supported Agwu’s claims, exposing a pattern of coercion and extortion.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
The allegations have sparked public outcry over police misconduct, abuse of power, and extortion. Activists and concerned citizens are calling for a thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable. “The police are meant to protect citizens, not exploit them,” one source emphasized.
