Popular musician Skales has publicly condemned what he describes as systematic harassment at multiple police checkpoints, particularly targeting luxury vehicle owners on Lagos’ Orchid Road. The artist’s frustration, expressed through a series of posts on X, highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and citizens in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Skales’ criticism focuses specifically on what he perceives as an abuse of power, with multiple checkpoints positioned unusually close to each other, seemingly designed to harass motorists rather than maintain security. In his pointed observation, he noted the presence of “3 to 4 checkpoints just 2 minutes drive away from each other,” questioning the legality and necessity of such concentrated police presence.
The artist’s outburst reflects broader societal concerns about police conduct and the relationship between law enforcement and the public in Nigeria. His characterization of the police as “very horrible set of humans” and his suggestion that officers deliberately target Mercedes-Benz vehicles for harassment has struck a chord with many Nigerians who have experienced similar encounters.
Particularly noteworthy in Skales’ criticism is his observation of what appears to be a class-based targeting system, where officers specifically stop luxury vehicles to “ask very stupid questions,” ultimately leading to either confrontation or solicitation for bribes. This pattern, he suggests, reveals a systematic approach to harassment rather than legitimate law enforcement activities.
The artist’s threat to start wearing a body camera and posting his encounters online represents a growing trend of citizens using technology and social media to document and challenge police behavior. This approach mirrors similar tactics used during the #EndSARS protests, where social media documentation played a crucial role in exposing police misconduct.
Skales’ commentary on the economic dynamics at play – “police wey no get money go dey stress fellow poor man” – highlights the complex socioeconomic factors underlying police-citizen interactions in Nigeria. His observation suggests that underpaid police officers often resort to harassing citizens as a means of supplementing their income, creating a cycle of exploitation and resentment.
The situation on Orchid Road, as described by Skales, serves as a microcosm of larger issues facing law enforcement in Nigeria. The apparent targeting of luxury vehicles suggests a form of profiling that raises questions about the proper role of police checkpoints and their implementation in urban areas.
By directly tagging the Nigeria Police PR handle in his posts, Skales demonstrates an attempt to engage authorities in addressing these concerns through official channels. His call for authorities to “look into it” suggests a desire for systematic reform rather than mere complaint.
The artist’s experience resonates with many Nigerians who have encountered similar situations, particularly young people driving nice cars who often find themselves subjected to additional scrutiny and harassment at police checkpoints. This targeting of particular demographics has long been a source of tension between law enforcement and the public.
The impact of such police practices extends beyond mere inconvenience, potentially affecting business activities and daily life in affected areas. Multiple checkpoints within short distances can create traffic congestion, waste time, and create opportunities for harassment, ultimately affecting the quality of life for residents and commuters alike.
Skales’ public stance against these practices comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with police reform in the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests. His criticism adds to ongoing discussions about the need for more professional, accountable law enforcement practices that serve public safety rather than harassment.
As this story continues to develop, it raises important questions about the balance between legitimate law enforcement needs and citizens’ rights to move freely without harassment. The response from police authorities to Skales’ complaints could provide insights into their willingness to address these persistent concerns about checkpoint practices and officer conduct.
The artist’s threat to document future encounters suggests that this issue may continue to generate public attention, potentially leading to broader discussions about police reform and accountability in Nigeria. For now, his outspoken criticism serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and citizens in urban Nigeria.
