The Take-It-Back Movement, Lagos State Chapter, has raised the alarm over an increase in unlawful raids, arrests, and extortion by the Nigeria Police Force and the Lagos State Task Force during the festive period.
In a statement titled “Take-It-Back Movement Condemns Unlawful Arrests and Extortion by Nigeria Police Force and Lagos State Task Force,” the organization said it was “appalled by the recent spate of unlawful arrests and extortion” across Lagos State.
According to the statement, which was signed by Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, Lagos State Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, and Oluwatosin Adeyemi, Public Relations Officer 2, “in the last 24 hours, numerous individuals have been detained at various locations across Lagos,” with “credible reports indicating that these actions are motivated by a desire for financial gain, particularly during the festive season.”
The movement described the situation as “a blatant abuse of power, a gross violation of human rights, and a betrayal of public trust.”
It stressed that “the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to liberty and security of person,” and warned that it is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies “to uphold these rights, not exploit them for personal gain.”
The Take-It-Back Movement called on security leaders in the state to act immediately. It said, “We call on the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and the head of the Task Force to immediately put an end to these illegal activities and ensure that all those arrested are released without condition.”
They also demanded accountability, stating, “We also demand a thorough investigation into these allegations and for those responsible to be held accountable.”
Emphasising public resistance to intimidation, the statement declared, “The people of Lagos will not be intimidated or extorted by those sworn to protect them.”
It added that the movement would “continue to monitor the situation and take all necessary actions to protect the rights of our citizens.”
The Take It Back Movement, Lagos State Chapter further urged residents to speak up, saying, “We urge the public to report any further instances of such abuse to our organization,” while assuring that “we will take swift action to address these injustices.”
Over the last 24 hours, the Take-It-Back Movement, Lagos State Chapter has received about 15 reports of illegal arrests, with victims and families reaching out to the organisation for intervention and support in seeking justice.
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