The Bwari Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Babayola Muhammad Musa, has been accused of abuse of office, extortion, and excessive use of force during police operations in Abuja.
A petition submitted on January 6, 2026, by the civil society group Springs Aid Foundation to the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, alleges that CSP Babayola led violent raids, fired live ammunition, and deployed tear gas indiscriminately, particularly during New Year celebrations in Bwari.
The petition, signed by Comrade Kenneth Chima on behalf of three victims—Mr. Thompson Edeh, Mr. Abraham Emmanuel, and Mr. Chidiebere Ogenyi—claims that over 90 people, including churchgoers and business owners, were arrested on December 31, 2025.
One victim, Abraham Emmanuel, reportedly suffered severe eye injuries from a tear gas canister, resulting in surgery and removal of the affected eye. Another, Tasiru, was injured by gunfire and may have died from complications, though this remains unverified.
The petition also alleges that CSP Babayola extorted detainees by demanding payments starting from ₦50,000 for their release and that those unable to pay were held in overcrowded cells under poor conditions. Mr. Thompson Edeh, a business owner, and Mr. Chidiebere Ogenyi, an NYSC member, were reportedly beaten and detained during these operations.
Springs Aid Foundation condemned the DPO’s actions as violations of Nigerian policing standards and international rules on use of force. The group is calling for an impartial investigation and criminal accountability for CSP Babayola, offering to submit video evidence to authorities.
Sources indicate that while the FCT Police Command has summoned both the DPO and victims, there are alleged attempts within the police hierarchy to suppress the investigation. Residents of Bwari have vowed to ensure justice for the victims, describing CSP Babayola as a “notorious officer” known for extorting youths under the guise of arresting internet fraudsters.
As of this report, the FCT Police Command has not issued an official statement, and efforts to reach the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Josephine Adeh, were unsuccessful.
