The Nigeria Police Force has condemned the conduct of a police officer captured in a viral social media video making threatening remarks against members of the public filming police activities.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force identified the officer as ASP Newton Isokpehi and described his actions and utterances in the video as “unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent” with the ethics and standards of the police institution.
According to the statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the officer has been summoned to the Anambra State Command Headquarters, where disciplinary procedures have already commenced.
The police authorities stressed that the conduct displayed by the officer runs contrary to the ongoing reform initiatives of the Force aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, professionalism, and citizen-focused policing.
The statement also reaffirmed the position of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who has consistently maintained that citizens have the right to lawfully record police officers while carrying out their duties, provided such recordings do not obstruct operations or compromise safety.
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“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 noted.
The Force further reiterated that recording police activities remains a legitimate tool for public accountability and transparency and should not attract harassment or intimidation from police personnel.
Police authorities added that a formal statement on the outcome of the disciplinary action against the officer would be made public in due course.
The Force also appreciated members of the public for their continued support and constructive engagement towards promoting accountability and improved policing standards across the country.
