Force shares 080-570-00001 hotline for complaints as extortion claims persist despite nationwide ‘Bail Is Free’ campaign

The Nigerian Police Force has reiterated that bail remains free in all police stations across Lagos State and the country, warning officers against demanding money from citizens seeking the release of suspects in bailable offences. This announcement was made on Thursday following renewed public outcry over alleged extortion by police personnel, with many Nigerians expressing doubts about the effectiveness of the ‘Bail Is Free’ initiative.

In a video circulated online, a senior police officer clarified that bail is an administrative process that allows suspects to leave custody while investigations continue, provided a reliable surety is present. The officer stated, “Bail is a process in a criminal investigation where a suspect is released to a reliable surety to produce him back whenever needed. Bail is not a punishment. Bail is not a sentence. So, the Nigerian law does not permit anyone to collect money for bail.”

Despite repeated campaigns and visible banners in many police stations declaring bail to be free, reports persist of Nigerians paying between ₦50,000 and ₦1 million under the guise of ‘mobilisation fees’ or ‘administrative charges.’ Many citizens remain sceptical about the policy’s enforcement due to longstanding allegations of police extortion and brutality nationwide.

To address these concerns, police authorities have urged any Nigerian who is asked to pay for bail to report immediately by calling 080-570-00001. The dedicated hotline was set up specifically for complaints against officers involved in illegal collection of money for bail. “Rather than argue with any officer at the station, we encourage citizens to use this complaint line so appropriate action can be taken,” the officer advised in the video.

Legal experts note that proper bail procedure requires only a surety and completion of paperwork by an Investigating Police Officer (IPO), with no cash transaction involved. The bail bond—a written guarantee ensuring suspects appear when required—costs nothing under Nigerian law.

As at Thursday afternoon, no official figures were released on disciplinary actions taken against offending officers in Lagos or elsewhere. However, civil society groups have called for greater transparency and stricter enforcement to ensure compliance by rank-and-file personnel. The Police Service Commission did not respond to requests for comment as at press time.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/police-bail-is-free-nigeria-2026062015113740956

Delta NDLEA Commander credits stricter enforcement and public campaigns during United Nations anti-drug event in Asaba

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has ramped up its crackdown on drug trafficking syndicates nationwide, recording a marked reduction in substance abuse cases in Delta State. This was revealed on Thursday in Asaba by Delta State Commander of NDLEA, Halilu Hamidu, during the MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) advocacy road walk held to mark the United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The advocacy event brought together officers of the NDLEA, members of the Military, Police, other security agencies, civil society organisations and students, all marching through Asaba with the aim of promoting a drug-free society. Participants emphasised safeguarding Nigeria’s youth from the dangers of substance abuse and called for sustained community vigilance.

Hamidu said Delta State has recorded a notable drop in substance abuse cases due to intensified enforcement actions targeting drug cartels as well as ongoing sensitisation efforts by the agency and its partners. “We are seeing improvement because of our constant raids on traffickers and steady enlightenment campaigns,” Hamidu stated at the event.

He attributed these gains to a combination of targeted operations against known drug syndicates and active community outreach programmes. According to him, collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders has been key to disrupting supply chains and raising awareness among young people about the consequences of drug use.

The road walk also featured engagement sessions with students and youth leaders, who pledged support for anti-drug initiatives. NDLEA officials urged parents, schools and local groups to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. The agency said it will continue to work closely with partners to sustain momentum in curbing substance abuse across Delta State.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/ndlea-intensifies-crackdown-on-drug-cartels-as-delta-records-decline-in-substance-abuse/

Statement comes as stakeholders assess reforms in South-West state, highlighting increased transparency and voter confidence

The Senate Leader has declared that Nigeria’s electoral system, particularly in Ekiti State, is steadily evolving and improving as preparations intensify for the 2026 governorship election. The lawmaker made the assertion on Saturday in Ekiti, noting visible advancements in election conduct and administration across recent cycles.

The comment was made while reviewing electoral processes and ongoing reforms targeted at strengthening democracy in the state. With the next governorship poll scheduled for 2026, political actors and civil society groups have been scrutinising mechanisms put in place by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure free and fair elections.

Ekiti State has witnessed several reforms over past elections, including the introduction of biometric voter accreditation, deployment of result viewing portals, and closer monitoring by security agencies. These measures are aimed at boosting public trust in the system and minimising incidents of irregularities that previously marred polls in parts of the South-West zone.

According to the Senate Leader, recent improvements are a sign that Nigeria’s democracy is maturing. He said: “Our electoral process is not static; it is growing with every election cycle. We have seen better transparency and increased confidence among voters.” The lawmaker encouraged INEC to maintain its commitment to credible elections while urging political parties to play by the rules. No statement from opposition parties was available as at press time.

As campaigns are expected to commence next year, attention will remain on how INEC implements further safeguards and whether these efforts translate into higher voter turnout and reduced post-election disputes. Observers note that Ekiti’s experience may influence future reforms across other states ahead of national elections.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/889377-ekitidecides2026-our-electoral-system-evolving-improving-senate-leader.html