A police officer is facing criticism after a viral video showed him making an ethnic remark while confronting a motorist at a checkpoint along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The incident involved a motorist who identified himself as a UK returnee. According to the video, he was stopped by the officer and presented his vehicle documents and driver's licence for routine inspection.
After examining the documents, the officer returned the vehicle papers but reportedly withheld the driver's licence. The motorist alleged that the officer demanded money, which he refused to give, insisting that he had committed no offence and asking the officer to carry out his duties professionally.
When the motorist declined to offer money, the officer reportedly asked for the waybill for his luggage and repeatedly instructed him to leave the scene without stating any traffic violation.
During the exchange, the officer made a comment that has since drawn public criticism. He said:
"I just see that we are very close. If you were Igbo or another person, I would have just asked you to park..."
The statement, captured in the video, has sparked reactions on social media, with many Nigerians describing it as discriminatory and inappropriate for a law enforcement officer.
Critics have called for an investigation into the officer's conduct and urged the Nigeria Police Force to address concerns about ethnic bias and alleged extortion at checkpoints.
The video continues to circulate online as calls grow for accountability and disciplinary action.
