The Nigeria Police Force says it is investigating allegations involving Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Moshood Jimoh while insisting that the criminal case linked to social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, remains before the courts.
In a statement posted on X, Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu said the case referenced in VeryDarkMan’s recent public comments had already been investigated and prosecuted following legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The police stressed that because the matter is before a court of competent jurisdiction, its outcome will be determined solely by the judiciary.
“The Force will not try this case in the media, nor will it allow its outcome to be shaped by public campaigns or commentary seeking to prejudge the officers or parties involved,” the statement said.
The Force also disclosed that the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) had invited AIG Jimoh for questioning over the allegations made against him.
It added that the FCID in Abuja had last month issued a formal invitation to VeryDarkMan, asking him to appear before investigators and provide evidence to support the claims he made publicly.
According to the police, the invitations reflect its commitment to investigating credible allegations of misconduct regardless of the rank of the officer involved or the status of the complainant.
The statement said disciplinary proceedings within the Force are governed by the Constitution, the Police Act 2020, Police Regulations, Force Orders and other established administrative procedures.
While affirming Nigerians’ constitutional right to freedom of expression and criticism of public institutions, the police warned against making unverified allegations.
“Any officer found culpable after investigation will face sanctions in accordance with the law, while false allegations intended to damage the reputation of officers or the institution may attract legal consequences,” the statement added.
The Force urged VeryDarkMan to honour the invitation from the FCID and allow both the administrative investigation and court proceedings to continue without interference.
It maintained that complaints against police officers should be pursued through established complaint and oversight mechanisms rather than public campaigns aimed at influencing disciplinary outcomes.
The police reiterated that no officer is above the law and pledged to uphold professionalism, transparency and accountability in carrying out its constitutional duties.
