The Delta State Police Command has removed and sanctioned the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the GRA Police Division in Asaba, following allegations of extortion and intimidation involving a man who tried to help a stranger in distress.
The incident, which gained widespread attention on social media, involved Tomi Wojuola, who shared his experience online, prompting public outcry and a swift response from the police authorities.
According to Wojuola, the ordeal began when he noticed an unconscious man on the road. Acting as a good Samaritan, he rushed the man to a nearby hospital in an effort to save his life. Tragically, the man reportedly died shortly after arrival at the medical facility.
Following the death, Wojuola explained that he followed proper procedure by requesting police involvement. However, instead of receiving assistance, he was allegedly detained at the GRA Police Station and treated as a suspect.
“Instead of helping, I was accused of murder, and my statement was taken under caution,” Wojuola wrote online. He further claimed that CSP Joseph Udoh, the Divisional Police Officer in charge, threatened him for intervening in the situation.
Wojuola alleged that the DPO told him he must be punished for acting like “Jesus,” referring to his attempt to help the dying man. The officer reportedly warned that after the incident, he would never attempt to help a dying person again, despite the fact that the deceased man’s family had confirmed that he had an underlying medical condition.
The good Samaritan also alleged that he was extorted by police officers as part of the detention process. He claimed that his money was taken, leaving him with only N2,000 in his bank account. Wojuola said he was only released after the intervention of a high-ranking government official.
The incident quickly drew attention on social media, with many Nigerians expressing outrage at the treatment of someone trying to save a life. Comments ranged from calls for justice to broader discussions about police accountability and the treatment of citizens by law enforcement.
Responding to the viral allegations, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, confirmed that disciplinary action had been taken against the DPO. In an official statement released on Saturday, Bright said:
“The officer has since been contacted, removed from his post, and sanctioned. The money extorted has also been refunded to the complainant.”
Wojuola later confirmed the development on his Facebook page, thanking members of the public for their support and expressing hope for a better Nigeria. “DPO removed and sanctioned. Money refunded. Thanks all. Naija go better one day!” he wrote.
The Delta State Police Command’s swift action is seen as a rare instance of accountability in response to allegations of misconduct. Police officers have often been criticized in Nigeria for acts of corruption, extortion, and abuse of power, leading to distrust between the public and law enforcement agencies.
This case also raises questions about the protection of good Samaritans in Nigeria. While citizens who intervene to help others in distress are often praised publicly, incidents of intimidation and extortion, as experienced by Wojuola, can discourage people from offering assistance in emergencies.
Tomi Wojuola’s experience echoes similar cases across the country where individuals attempting to assist others have faced harassment or extortion by authorities. Analysts say that Nigeria needs clear legal protections for citizens who act in good faith during emergencies to ensure that helping others does not put them at risk of abuse or detention.
In addition to the personal impact on Wojuola, the incident has prompted discussions on social media about the wider culture of impunity within the police. Many users called for reforms that would require officers to act professionally and respectfully, particularly when dealing with citizens who are not involved in criminal activity.
The removal and sanctioning of CSP Joseph Udoh is being seen as a positive step toward accountability. Observers note that it sends a message to other officers that extortion, threats, and intimidation will not be tolerated, especially when directed at citizens performing acts of kindness.
The Delta State Police Command has, in recent years, emphasized community policing and the importance of public trust. SP Edafe Bright’s confirmation of the DPO’s sanction demonstrates the command’s commitment to these principles and its responsiveness to public concerns.
Civil society organizations and advocacy groups have praised the quick action taken by the police, noting that public pressure and social media advocacy played a key role in ensuring accountability. Many have called for broader reforms, including training programs to improve officers’ understanding of citizens’ rights and legal processes.
The incident has also sparked calls for better legal frameworks to protect individuals who assist strangers in emergencies. Analysts argue that legal safeguards could prevent similar cases in the future, ensuring that good Samaritans are supported rather than penalized for their actions.
Tomi Wojuola’s case highlights the courage and humanity of citizens willing to step in to help others, as well as the challenges they may face when authorities fail to act professionally. His public account and the subsequent police action may serve as a model for how citizens and law enforcement can collaborate to ensure justice and accountability.
