NIGERIA POLICE FORCE AND ROAD USERS’ EXTORTION ALONG OWO-IKARE HIGH WAY ONDO NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICTS ONDO STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract This study examines the phenomenon of extortion by officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) against road users along the Owo–Ikare highway in the Ondo North Senatorial District of Ondo State, Nigeria. The research investigates the nature, patterns, and drivers of extortion practices, as well as their socio-economic and psychological impacts on commercial drivers, private motorists, and commuters. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and direct field observations involving road users, transport union members, and community stakeholders. The findings reveal that extortion is widespread and systematic, occurring through illegal checkpoints, intimidation, threats of arrest, vehicle impoundment, and exploitation of minor traffic violations. Factors contributing to this practice include poor welfare conditions of police officers, weak institutional accountability mechanisms, corruption within law enforcement structures, and limited oversight from relevant authorities. The study further shows that extortion undermines public trust in the police, increases transportation costs, discourages economic activities, and contributes to feelings of insecurity and injustice among citizens. The paper concludes that persistent extortion along the Owo–Ikare highway represents not only a law enforcement failure but also a governance and ethical crisis within public institutions. It recommends strengthened internal police disciplinary systems, improved remuneration and welfare packages, deployment of technology-based monitoring systems, community policing frameworks, and sustained civil society engagement as strategies for curbing extortion and rebuilding public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.