In a post shared by @leadership_ng on X, the Nigerian police have officially launched a probe into the reported physical assault and robbery of popular content creator Ijoba Lande. The comedian cried out in a viral video, alleging that officers not only physically attacked him but also forcibly took his iPhone and stole $1,200 belonging to his brother during a stop-and-search encounter.
The incident has sparked outrage across TikTok and Instagram, where Ijoba Lande’s fans have been sharing the footage of his distressed state following the encounter. The swift response from the authorities indicates a heightened sensitivity to celebrity-related complaints involving law enforcement. Reports suggest the officers involved have already been taken into custody as the investigation proceeds to verify the skit maker’s claims.
Confirming the development, Punch Newspapers stated on February 7, 2026: “Police probe attack on actor Ijoba Lande… The officers are reportedly in custody as an investigation begins.” Additionally, Vanguard Nigeria reported on the viral nature of the claim: “Skit maker Ijoba Lande cries out over alleged police brutality, claiming theft of $1,200 and personal gadgets.”
Echotitbits Take:
Viral “cries for help” from celebrities are becoming the most effective tool for police accountability in Nigeria. While the police have moved quickly, the credibility of the $1,200 theft claim will be the focal point of the probe. If proven true, this could lead to another public relations crisis for the force; if found exaggerated, it may hurt Lande’s standing with his millions of digital followers.
Source: Leadership Newspapers — https://leadership.ng/policemen-attacked-me-collected-my-iphone-stole-my-brothers-1200-skit-maker-ijoba-lande-cries-out/ February 7, 2026
Photo Credit: The Guardian
