Family Accuses Police of Exploiting Tragedy
A man familiar to the family kidnapped seven-year-old Mercy Akande in Sango, Ogun State, on December 23, 2024. The abduction, involving the daughter of a Point-of-Sale operator, sparked outrage as police allegedly stalled the investigation by demanding exorbitant fees to track the suspect.
Kidnapping Details Highlight Community Vulnerabilities
Witnesses revealed that the suspect, a frequent customer at the family’s business, had built trust by befriending Mercy. On the day of the incident, he allegedly sent her on an errand and intercepted her on her return. Despite the mother noticing unusual behavior, the man and the child vanished before any action could be taken. Attempts to contact the suspect failed, as his number became unreachable shortly after the kidnapping.
Police Allegedly Demand Tracking and Filing Fee
When the case was reported to the Sango police station, officers allegedly requested N40,000 from Mercy’s mother: N10,000 to report the case and N30,000 to track the suspect’s phone number. The family, already struggling financially, managed to pay part of the fees but faced delays due to the holidays, preventing the issuance of required court documents.
Social Media Amplifies Public Outrage
The incident gained attention after a relative shared the story on social media, tagging prominent figures and police officials. Public reactions condemned the alleged extortion, with many highlighting systemic issues within the Nigeria Police Force. The post prompted intervention from senior police officers, bringing temporary relief to the distressed family.
Police Command Promises Swift Action.
Reacting to the allegations, Ogun State Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola assured the public of a thorough investigation into the extortion claims. Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi also condemned the demands as unprofessional and urged the family to contact him directly for assistance. “Such actions are unacceptable and undermine trust in law enforcement,” he stated.
Calls for Accountability and Reform
The incident underscores the urgent need for police reform in Nigeria, particularly in handling sensitive cases like kidnappings. Advocacy groups and citizens are calling for greater transparency and accountability to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable families. Mercy’s disappearance has become a rallying point for demanding systemic changes to ensure justice and protect civilian trust in law enforcement.
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