A journalist based in Oyo State has narrated a harrowing ordeal involving alleged unlawful conduct by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, claiming that armed officers stormed his residence without a warrant, traumatising his wife and two-year-old child.
In a detailed account shared on X (formerly Twitter), the journalist, identified as Ayoola (popularly known online as @ogbeniayoola), alleged that on Tuesday, January 13, 2025, officers from the Anti-Cybercrime Unit of the Eleyele Police Headquarters forcefully entered his home while heavily armed.
According to his account, about 15 armed policemen allegedly let themselves into his house uninvited, questioning him about his source of income, ownership of a car, and the occupations of his neighbours. Despite identifying himself as a journalist, he said the officers dismissed his explanation and insisted on entering his apartment.
He further alleged that the officers ordered his wife, who works as a web and product designer, to dress up before they forcibly entered the apartment while brandishing AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, pistols and other weapons.
The journalist claimed that after entering the apartment, the officers questioned the authenticity of journalism awards displayed in his home, suggesting he may have fabricated them to disguise himself. He said the officers insisted on searching his apartment and demanded access to his mobile phone. When he resisted, he alleged that the officers threatened him with their weapons — all in the presence of his wife and young child.
Fearing for the safety of his family, the journalist said he eventually complied. The officers reportedly searched his phone for evidence of internet fraud but found nothing. They later returned his phone and left the premises.
He also alleged that it was after the incident that he learned several other homes in his estate were similarly raided, with some residents allegedly arrested unlawfully.
“My family has not been the same since this experience. We are deeply traumatized and now feel unsafe in our own home,” he wrote, describing the incident as a serious violation of privacy and due process.
In a follow-up post, the journalist disclosed that senior police authorities had responded to the allegations. According to him, officials from the Nigeria Police Force headquarters in Abuja, alongside the Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, have reportedly identified the officers involved in the raid.
He stated that assurances were given that the erring officers would face disciplinary action in line with police regulations, adding that investigations into the incident were ongoing.
As of the time of filing this report, the Oyo State Police Command has not released an official public statement detailing the outcome of the investigation or confirming specific sanctions against the officers involved.
The incident has sparked renewed public debate on police conduct, unlawful searches, and citizens’ rights, with many Nigerians calling for greater accountability and adherence to due process in law enforcement operations.
