For Liberty Kelechi Isaac, a Nigerian citizen who had just returned to his homeland after six years in Ghana, the dream of a warm homecoming was swiftly shattered. His ordeal, which took place on August 26th, is a stark reminder of the rot within the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and the urgent need for reform. Liberty, a native of Nguru Nworie in Imo State, had been visiting Bayelsa for a friend's traditional wedding, only to be attacked and robbed by the very people tasked with protecting him.
On his return journey to Imo, Liberty encountered a police roadblock in the Udi axis of Bayelsa’s Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area. What should have been a routine stop quickly turned into a nightmare. When the officers demanded access to his phone, Liberty reminded them of the directive by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), which prohibited such actions. His refusal was met with brutal violence. Beaten and threatened with death, Liberty had no choice but to comply with the officers’ unlawful demand.
Upon accessing his phone, the police found a bank alert for N10 million. Instantly, they labeled him a fraudster and coerced him into transferring N3 million to an account they provided. Liberty was then driven to Ahoada, Rivers State, and abandoned by his assailants. Thanks to a viral video of Liberty recounting his ordeal, as well as a formal complaint lodged through his lawyer, most of the culprits have been arrested. While three officers are in custody, one managed to flee before the investigation could apprehend him.
Liberty’s experience is disheartening, but unfortunately, it's not unique. After spending six years abroad, he had the right to enjoy his motherland, free from the corruption and lawlessness he encountered. Instead, he narrowly escaped what could have been a far worse fate. Many Nigerians have not been so lucky.
The question we must ask ourselves is What went wrong If, as the officers insinuated, Liberty was suspected of fraud, did that justify the physical abuse and coercion he endured Why are Nigerian citizens treated with suspicion simply for having large sums in their bank accounts Even more troubling is the fact that the police were unwilling to take him to a station for proper interrogation if they believed he was involved in illegal activities. This case exemplifies the unchecked power some officers wield, using their authority not to uphold justice, but to exploit vulnerable citizens.
The most absurd aspect of this crime is the police’s brazen attempt to steal N3 million through a traceable bank transaction. One would assume that officers of the law, at the very least, would understand the basics of financial records and accountability. Yet, these officers clearly believed they could rob Liberty without consequence. Such behavior is indicative of a deep-seated cynicism toward Nigeria’s justice system, which some police personnel evidently believe is toothless.
The arrest of the involved officers is only a small step toward justice. For true reform, the Nigeria Police Force must embark on a comprehensive reorientation of its personnel. Training must focus not just on the mechanics of policing, but on instilling values such as integrity, justice, and respect for the law. As it stands, too many officers act as bandits in uniform, which erodes public trust and undermines the very foundation of law enforcement.
This case should not simply fade into obscurity. The police authorities must transparently prosecute the culprits and impose appropriate, publicized punishments. Doing so will send a message that rogue officers will no longer be tolerated, and that the Nigerian police force is capable of charting a new course—one that restores public faith in their ability to protect, not harm.
Ultimately, the tragic ordeal of Liberty Kelechi Isaac underscores the urgent need for systemic change within Nigeria's police force. Without it, more innocent citizens will continue to fall victim to the very people sworn to protect them. The law, logic, and democracy demand better.