The Nigeria Police Force has warned Nigerians against paying money to secure bail, stressing that both individuals offering and receiving such payments could face prosecution.
According to The PUNCH, the warning was issued by Awuf Jonah, Head of the Police Complaint Response Unit, during a public sensitisation rally in Lagos.
The rally took place on Friday, October 23, 2026, and focused on promoting accountability and educating residents about police misconduct.
Jonah explained that police bail remained free and encouraged Nigerians to report officers demanding illegal payments.
Police reiterate free bail policy
The police official said Inspector-General Olatunji Disu had repeatedly warned against collecting money for bail.
“If you pay money for any bail, the giver and the taker will be arrested and then prosecuted,” Jonah said.
He explained that the Complaint Response Unit investigated allegations of misconduct and recommended disciplinary action against officers found culpable.
The sensitisation exercise was organised in partnership with the Eagle Crime Awareness and Prevention Initiative.
Police encourage reporting of misconduct
Activities included roadshows, public engagement and the distribution of information materials.
Residents were also educated about available channels for submitting complaints against police officers.
The unit provided telephone numbers 08057000101 and 08057000102 for calls, alongside 08057000103 for WhatsApp complaints.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid, who represented the Lagos Commissioner of Police, welcomed the initiative.
He said stronger cooperation between the police and communities would improve public trust.
The organisers disclosed plans to extend the campaign to markets and other communities across Lagos.
They urged residents to understand their rights and report extortion or other forms of misconduct through official channels.
