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Response from Lagos Police on Viral Video Involving Social Media Influencer Papaya Ex
SP Adebisi Abimbola, the official spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, has addressed the widespread video shared by social media personality Abike Raheem, widely known as Papaya Ex. In the footage, she alleges that a police officer assaulted her during a late-night incident in Lagos.
Details of the Incident as Reported by Papaya Ex
During a heartfelt live broadcast on TikTok on Friday, February 20, Papaya Ex recounted that while returning from a film shoot in the Ajah district, she was confronted by a police officer. She claimed the officer slapped her, struck her face with his firearm, physically assaulted her driver, made inappropriate physical contact with her, and forcibly confiscated her phone. She also showed visible marks that appeared to be injuries sustained during the encounter.
Official Police Statement and Investigation Update
In response, SP Adebisi released an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the event:
A white Mercedes-Benz SUV carrying five individuals—two women and three men—was stopped during a routine stop-and-search operation. When asked for identification, the occupants failed to provide valid documents. One individual repeatedly identified herself as “Papaya X” and claimed recognition by senior officers but did not present any verifiable ID.
The officers requested that the group accompany them to Ajah Police Station for proper identification and documentation. An Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) joined the vehicle, with other officers following behind.
Shortly after departing, the driver accelerated abruptly in an apparent attempt to evade the police. The vehicle was later intercepted at a second checkpoint near Addo Roundabout by officers from Langbasa Police Division.
The video circulating online was recorded after the vehicle was stopped at this second checkpoint. The incident remains under thorough investigation, and further information will be provided as it becomes available.
Context and Broader Implications
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about police conduct and accountability in Lagos, where public trust in law enforcement has been challenged by similar reports. According to recent data from the Nigerian Police Force, complaints regarding police misconduct have increased by 15% in the past year, prompting calls for enhanced oversight and reform.
Cases involving public figures like Papaya Ex often draw significant attention, sparking debates on social media about the treatment of citizens during police operations. Comparable situations in other Nigerian cities, such as Abuja and Port Harcourt, have led to community-led initiatives advocating for police transparency and respect for human rights.
Watch the Video Shared by Papaya Ex
Below is the video posted by Papaya Ex, which has fueled widespread discussion and calls for justice:
