Social media influencer Abike Raheem, widely known as Papaya Ex, has accused a police officer of assault during a late night encounter in the Ajah area of Lagos State.
The influencer made the allegation on Friday night during a live session on TikTok, where she described how the incident occurred as she was returning home from a shoot.
According to Papaya Ex, what began as a routine stop by police officers escalated into a confrontation. She alleged that the officer “Struck her in the face with a gun,” “Assaulted her driver,” “Touched her inappropriately,” “Slapped her,” and “Hit her buttocks and breasts.” She also claimed that her mobile phone was forcibly taken.
During the live broadcast, she displayed what appeared to be a wound mark on her face. She said the alleged assault was not captured on video due to network problems at the scene.
Videos circulating online showed a heated exchange between the influencer and an officer, sparking reactions on social media and calls for an investigation.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force gave a different account of events. Force spokesman ACP Benjamin Hundeyin said the incident began just before 2 am when officers on night patrol stopped a vehicle carrying five occupants for a routine search. He said Papaya Ex “bluntly refused” the search and claimed her status, after which the situation escalated.
Police said the vehicle later left the scene and officers followed, intercepting it at another checkpoint. According to the police, the matter is under investigation and further details will be made available as necessary.
As of the latest update, the Lagos State Police Command has not released a separate detailed statement on the allegation.
