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By Lawrence Agbo
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, has warned that the state task force may be dissolved if allegations of extortion and human rights violations against its operatives are proven.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Jimoh said the police command would no longer tolerate unprofessional conduct, stressing that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary action.
The warning follows a surge in complaints against members of the task force, including accusations of extortion, torture, and unlawful arrests.
A recent viral video showing operatives arresting lawyers over a land dispute has further intensified public criticism, with many questioning the unit’s involvement in civil matters.
Reacting to the allegations against the task force, Jimoh said the command has launched investigations into the allegations and urged victims to come forward with credible evidence to aid the process.
He assured that no officer would be shielded from accountability.
“We are not going to defend any police officer who engages in wrongdoing,” he said, adding that the command had already sanctioned officers in previous cases.
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The police chief disclosed that he had met with task force officials and issued a stern warning against further abuses.
“If I can charge five police officers to court for the case in Owode Onirin, then who will I not discipline if there is wrongdoing?
“We want the general public to know that we are not covering the task force. We have read the riot act to them yesterday that if I have a complaint of any wrongdoing again, and it is verifiable and investigated, I will not hesitate to dissolve the entire task force and bring in a new set of officers to join them.
He also noted that new officers are being deployed to the Lagos task force following background checks, training, and reorientation, while plans are underway to collaborate with civil society and human rights organisations to improve compliance.
“As we speak, we have been posting new officers to the task force after thorough background checks, training, and reorientation.
Jimoh added that the police command remains open to engaging with residents to address concerns and strengthen public trust.
“We are going to engage human rights organisations and CSOs so that we can broaden their minds on human rights.”
