In a recent incident in Lagos, a driver named Oyiga Michael found himself in hot water with the law after violating traffic rules while relying on Google Maps for directions on a Saturday night. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, has urged Michael to accept the legal consequences of his actions.
Michael took to social media to share his ordeal, claiming that he was arrested by the police at Ijesha for allegedly driving against the traffic flow while following the directions provided by the Google Map app. Despite explaining that the map had led him astray, Michael recounted that the police were unresponsive and even threatened to deflate his tires.
The driver, who was returning from a wedding, expressed financial constraints, saying, “We don’t have any money extra.” Although Michael was eventually released, his car was impounded at the Cele Police Station. The police demanded a payment of N30,000 to release the vehicle.
In response to Michael’s plea for assistance on social media, Lagos PPRO, Benjamin Hundeyin, emphasized the importance of abiding by the law, stating, “Ignorance is not an excuse under the law. Google Maps is equally not an excuse. Stay calm and let the law take its course.”
Hundeyin clarified the role of the police, stating, “We are law enforcement officers, not lawmakers. We enforce the law made by the people.” Addressing the allegation of a demanded bribe, he warned against such practices and encouraged individuals to follow the legal route: “It is an offence to give a bribe. It is, however, very okay to pay a fine. And that would be in court, not a police station.”
Acknowledging the mistake, Michael expressed a desire for leniency, stating, “It was a mistake from our end, and we have perfectly learned our lesson, sir. I pray they tamper Justice with mercy.”
In a follow-up post on Sunday morning, Michael reassured well-wishers of his well-being, mentioning that he was not detained or harmed. However, his car remained at the police station, and he plans to return on Monday in the hope of resolving the situation and retrieving his vehicle.