A viral video showing police officers allegedly demanding a bribe and making an ethnic remark has triggered swift action from the Ondo State Police Command.
The incident, which quickly spread across social media, has sparked fresh conversations about police conduct in Nigeria.
The police officers arrested were identified after the command reviewed the footage. Police authorities said the officers are now being investigated for alleged unprofessional conduct that could damage public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Ondo State Police Command, the incident happened during a roadside stop along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The video allegedly showed one of the officers asking a motorist to leave without explaining any traffic offence.
During the encounter, the officer also made remarks that many Nigerians described as ethnically insensitive.
The officer was heard saying:
“I just see that we are very close. If you were Igbo or another person, I would have just I’d have asked you to park…”
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that the officers had already been arrested.
Speaking in Akure, he explained that the investigation followed a directive from the Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu.
According to Jimoh, the command is determined to establish the level of responsibility of each officer before appropriate action is taken.
Furthermore, he stressed that the police leadership viewed the allegations with seriousness.
He noted that the Nigeria Police Force would not tolerate any behaviour capable of promoting ethnic division or damaging public trust.
The officers identified in the investigation are Inspectors Elomore Sodayo, Adefila Adewale, Olorunfemi Opeyemi and Odusola Peter.
Jimoh reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism.
He stated:
“The Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined and professional institution that does not condone any form of misconduct, incivility, or actions capable of undermining public confidence, promoting ethnic division, or bringing the force into disrepute.”
He further added:
“Officers are expected at all times to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism, respect for human dignity, and in strict compliance with the Code of Conduct and Standard Operating Procedures.”
Moreover, the police spokesperson assured Nigerians that the investigation would be handled fairly and openly.
According to him, any officer found guilty would face disciplinary measures in line with the law and internal police regulations.
He also urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of police misconduct through official complaint channels.
In addition, the command encouraged residents to remain peaceful while the investigation continues.
Jimoh said:
“The outcome of the investigation will be guided by the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.”
He added:
“Any officer found to have acted contrary to the ethics and standards of the Nigeria Police Force will be subjected to appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the law and established disciplinary procedures.”
The development has once again placed the spotlight on accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.
