Delta Police Re‑Arrest Church Worshipper After He’s Granted Bail for “Leaking” Extortion Claims

The Delta State Police Command has rearrested Benjamin Eboka, a worshipper who was among dozens picked up during New Year’s Eve raids on crossover‑night church services in Asaba. After being released on bail, Eboka was summoned to the command on Monday to collect his impounded vehicle, only to be detained again on accusations that he exposed the N150,000‑N200,000 bail extortion scheme allegedly run by officers under Deputy Commissioner of Police Adejobi Olumuyiwa ¹.

Police sources say the officers claim Eboka “leaked” details of the extortion to the press, a charge he denies, insisting he knows nothing about any publication. The command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, described the arrested individuals as “hoodlums” who allegedly attacked officers and caused disturbances, but the detainees allege they were merely heading to or from worship when they were rounded up and forced to pay bail ¹.

The incident has sparked outrage among locals and church leaders, who are calling for the immediate release of Eboka and an independent investigation into the alleged extortion network within the Delta Police Command. Human‑rights groups have also demanded accountability for what they describe as a pattern of intimidation and corruption targeting ordinary citizens ¹.

Meanwhile, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, James Adeshola, has yet to assume office, leaving the command under the acting oversight of DCP Olumuyiwa. Observers are watching to see whether the new leadership will address the allegations and restore public trust in the force.