The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, has warned officers in the command against engaging in extortion, harassment, unlawful phone searches, and profiling youths as “Yahoo boys.”
Speaking on Friday in Ilorin to Deputy Commissioners, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders, Ojo said the directive aligns with instructions from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“Officers who interfere in civil matters without criminal elements, unlawfully search phones, or maliciously label youths as internet fraudsters are committing serious offences,” he declared.
Ojo further clarified that road stops for phone searches are strictly prohibited unless a device is a confirmed exhibit in an ongoing investigation. He reassured the public, particularly students and young people, that the command is committed to protecting their fundamental rights and dignity.
“The era of intimidation and wrongful profiling is over in Kwara State,” he added, urging youths to remain law-abiding.
In a related development, the police announced that enforcement of tinted glass permits will begin on 2 October 2025. Motorists without valid permits or with fake/expired ones will face prosecution within 24 hours. SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the police spokesperson, advised drivers to carry original permits and report any extortion linked to the enforcement.
Similar warnings were issued earlier this year by Edo State CP Betty Enekpen-Otimeyin, who prohibited extortion and random phone searches unless necessary for investigations.
