A 26-year-old motorcycle rider, Yakubu Usman, was arrested by the Lagos State Police Command for impersonating a police officer. According to Nigerian Tribune, Usman claimed to be an Assistant Superintendent of Police to avoid having his motorcycle seized.
Usman, from Borno State, was arrested at 2 a.m. on October 21 by the Alausa Division’s surveillance team. Police operatives on night patrol duty spotted him with an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle in front of Fela’s Shrine.
When questioned, Usman flashed a fake identity card, claiming to serve in the Lagos command under the Entry and Exit Squad. However, the operatives discovered the card was fake, and he had forged the Assistant Inspector General of Police’s signature.
Further investigation revealed a jacket with the inscription E&ES in Usman’s possession. During interrogation, he confessed to impersonating a police officer, citing his love for the job and unsuccessful attempts to join the force.
Usman shared his past experiences working as a helper for police officers and okada rider. He claimed he created the fake identity card to save his motorcycle from being impounded.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest and stated that Usman would be charged to court after investigation.
Usman’s desperation to join the police force led him to impersonate an officer. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of desperation and impersonation.
The Lagos State Police Command remains vigilant in combating impersonation and maintaining law enforcement integrity. For more information on this story, you can search online for updates.