Nigerian Police
Nigeria Police Force has reacted to a viral video showing a police officer, identified as ASP Newton Isokpehi, allegedly threatening to shoot members of the public for recording him while on duty.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Force spokesman, DCP Anthony Placid, the Force described the officer’s conduct as “unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent with the ethics, standards, and code of conduct of the Nigeria Police Force.”
The statement, signed by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the officer’s actions contradicted ongoing reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, professionalism, and community-oriented policing within the Force.
According to the police, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has repeatedly emphasised that Nigerians have the right to lawfully record police officers carrying out their duties, as long as such actions do not obstruct operations or compromise public safety.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, has consistently maintained that members of the public have the right to lawfully record police officers carrying out their duties, provided such recording does not obstruct operations, compromise safety, or interfere with lawful police activities,” the statement read.
The Force disclosed that ASP Isokpehi has been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters, where disciplinary proceedings against him have already commenced.
The police further stressed that threats, intimidation, abuse of office, and other acts capable of eroding public trust would not be tolerated.
“In line with this position, the officer involved has since been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Command Headquarters where immediate disciplinary procedures have commenced. The Nigeria Police Force does not tolerate threats, intimidation, abuse of office, or any conduct capable of undermining public trust and confidence in law enforcement institutions,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its stance on public accountability, the Force maintained that citizens are legally permitted to record police activities and should not face harassment for doing so.
“The Force further reiterates that recording police activities remains a legitimate tool for public accountability and transparency and should not, in itself, attract harassment or intimidation from police personnel while discharging their duties,” the police said.
The statement also noted that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public in due course.
The Nigeria Police Force appreciated Nigerians for their continued cooperation and engagement in promoting accountability and professionalism in policing across the country.
