Motorists plying the busy Airport Road corridor in Lagos have raised alarm over what they describe as a notorious extortion racket allegedly operated by police officers attached to checkpoints popularly known as “7 & 8”, around the Makinde axis.
According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the officers routinely stop vehicles under the guise of “routine checks” before seizing drivers’ vehicle papers and demanding ₦20,000 — tagged as “last price” — for their release. Motorists who fail to comply are reportedly delayed for hours, with their documents held hostage until payment is made.
In a disturbing twist, witnesses allege that the cash collection does not happen openly at the checkpoint. Instead, a designated “cash officer” is said to hide inside a nearby Keke Napep, where victims are directed to withdraw money via PoS and hand over cash discreetly. Only after payment, motorists claim, are their vehicle papers returned.
“This is not policing, it’s organised extortion,” one commuter said. “Everything is structured — from seizing the papers to directing you to the Keke for PoS withdrawal.”
The alleged operation, motorists say, has become so routine that drivers now dread approaching the stretch, especially during peak hours, when traffic congestion makes it impossible to avoid the checkpoint.
Civil rights advocates have called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Lagos State Police Command to urgently investigate the claims, warning that such practices continue to erode public trust in law enforcement.
As pressure mounts online with tags directed at @PoliceNG, @LagosPoliceNG and @CruLagospolice, affected motorists say video evidence of the alleged extortion ring is expected to surface shortly, which could further intensify calls for accountability.
For now, the Airport Road allegations add to growing concerns over police conduct on Lagos highways — and renew demands for decisive action against officers who turn checkpoints into toll gates.
Source:@Objectvmedia
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