Nollywood actress and former BBNaija star Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan, popularly known as BamBam, has shared her unsettling experience with a Nigerian police officer who allegedly acted inappropriately and forcefully demanded money from her.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), BamBam narrated how she was stopped without reason while returning home from a movie set. According to her, the officer’s conduct left her feeling uncomfortable as he persistently requested her to “show him love.”
“Just wrapped up from a movie set, heading home, and Nigerian police stopped us for no reason — forced us to step down only to start begging for money. What kind of nonsense is this?”
A Troubling Exchange
BamBam explained that despite greeting the officer respectfully, he continued to insist on receiving money. She noted that he could have made the request from the car window, but his insistence on making her and her assistant step out of the vehicle added to her discomfort.
“He was a bit inappropriate and forceful. I came down, greeted him, and he asked if I was okay. I said I’m fine, just tired. He said, ‘Show me love now.’”
Feeling pressured and unable to drive off, BamBam stated that she was “forced to give something.”
A Call for Safer Policing
The actress lamented the state of policing in Nigeria, emphasizing that citizens should feel safe rather than anxious when interacting with law enforcement officers. She criticized the sense of entitlement exhibited by some officers and argued that tipping should only be voluntary, in recognition of professional service.
“We shouldn’t see the police and feel uncomfortable but safe. Asking and demanding are two different things. Feeling entitled about your money and tipping because they were respectful and actually doing their job are two different things.”
Reactions and Public Outcry
BamBam’s post has ignited widespread discussions online, with many Nigerians sharing similar experiences of police intimidation and bribery. Some users expressed frustration over the persistent issue of police harassment despite ongoing reforms.
Her experience has also reignited calls for the Nigerian Police Force to enforce stricter disciplinary measures against corrupt officers and ensure that citizens’ rights are respected.
BamBam’s story stands as a reminder of the need for accountability within the police force and the importance of fostering a society where law enforcement officers uphold their duties with integrity and respect.
