The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation into allegations of extortion leveled against Ganiyu Dauda, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Igbara-Oke, located in Ifedore Local Government Area.
The investigation follows a protest on Friday, April 11, by residents who accused the DPO and his officers of routinely extorting money from members of the community. The protesters, wielding leaves in a traditional symbol of peace and protest, blocked the main road leading into the town to express their grievances and demand accountability.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said the command had opened a formal inquiry into the matter. He called on members of the public with credible information or evidence to come forward and assist in the investigation.
“The command has launched an investigation into the alleged extortion incident. Although no official report has been filed yet, we encourage anyone with concrete evidence against the DPO or any officer involved to present it to the authorities,” Ayanlade said.
He assured residents that the findings of the investigation would be made public and urged the community to remain calm and law-abiding as the process unfolds.
Reports suggest that the protest was sparked by a dispute between members of a drivers’ union and police officers over the towing of a vehicle involved in an accident to the Igbara-Oke Divisional Police Station. The situation has since been resolved following the intervention of the local government chairman.
