A disturbing video showing police officers assaulting a man along the Owerri–Aba Road has sparked outrage across social media, prompting swift action by the Imo State Police Command.
In the viral footage, the officers were seen slapping and kicking a man, reportedly a passenger in a commercial vehicle.
Reacting to the growing criticism, the Imo State Police Command identified the officers involved as Inspector Ofem Obongha, Inspector Obinna Okereke, and Sergeant Anayo Ekezie all attached to the Safer Highway Unit.
According to a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, an orderly room trial was conducted following a review of the viral video.
The trial was held in accordance with the Nigeria Police Force’s disciplinary procedures.
“Sergeant Anayo Ekezie was found guilty of using his issued smoke gunner in the assault and has been demoted to the rank of Corporal,” the statement read.
Furthermore, Okoye stated that “Inspectors Obongha and Okereke were severely reprimanded for failing to exercise proper supervisory control, which allowed the unprofessional conduct to occur.”
The disciplinary action against the officers is part of the police authority’s commitment to maintaining discipline within the Force.
Moreover, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, strongly condemned the actions of the officers involved.
He described their behavior as a serious violation of the Nigeria Police Force’s Code of Conduct and human rights principles.
“This kind of behavior is not only unacceptable, but it is also a breach of the Force’s core values. We will continue to uphold our zero-tolerance policy on police misconduct and take decisive action against any officer who violates that trust,” CP Danjuma emphasized.
In addition, the Imo Police Command is encouraging members of the public to report any form of police misconduct.
Citizens are urged to reach out to the Complaints Response Unit (CRU), X-Squad Unit, or directly via 08033424051 or 08148024755.
While the swift response of the Imo Police Command is commendable, many Nigerians believe more work is still needed to foster trust and fairness in daily policing.
