Alleged corruption: IGP summons Lagos Taskforce chairman

The controversy began after a blogger posted videos accusing Taskforce operatives of extortion, human rights violations and land grabbing.

Sources told The Nation that the IGP, known for advocating humane and professional policing, considered the allegations disturbing, particularly at a time the Force is undergoing reforms.

“CSP Akerele has been invited to the Force Headquarters on Monday to meet the IGP. The allegations are too serious to be ignored. The outcome of the meeting will determine his fate,” a source said.

Meanwhile, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has warned Taskforce operatives against misconduct, vowing sanctions for any officer found culpable of corruption, extortion or abuse of authority.

He cautioned that the command would not hesitate to disband any unit operating contrary to the strategic direction of the IGP.

Jimoh assured residents that any officer found violating citizens’ rights would face the full weight of the law and urged the public to provide evidence to support complaints.

He recalled how five policemen from another state involved in a shooting at Owode Onirin Market last year were tracked, arrested and prosecuted.

“We are not going to defend any police officer involved in wrongdoing. If I could charge five officers to court over the Owode Onirin case, no one will be spared where misconduct is established,” he said.

He added that the command had already deployed newly screened and reoriented officers to the Taskforce and would collaborate with human rights organisations and civil society groups to strengthen professionalism within the unit.

The CP urged residents to take ownership of policing, stressing that security requires collective responsibility.

“We are not perfect, but we are open to corrections and advice from the public. It is right to call us out when we err, but false or malicious allegations demoralise officers and embolden criminals,” he said.

Jimoh said the command investigated allegations circulated by Object TV and found no wrongdoing by Taskforce operatives, adding that the suspect involved was charged to court for violating traffic laws without any breach of rights.

He reiterated that law enforcement actions must be guided strictly by legal provisions and due process.

The CP disclosed that fresh training and reorientation had commenced for Taskforce personnel to address complaints and reinforce professionalism, warning that verified misconduct could attract sanctions, including possible restructuring of the unit.

He also defended the use of unmarked vehicles and covert operations, describing them as essential tools for tackling urban crime and traffic violations.

Jimoh noted that such strategies have helped improve responses to opportunistic crimes across Lagos.

He further urged residents to avoid vilifying law enforcement officers and instead support ongoing police-community engagement initiatives aimed at strengthening trust and collaboration.