The Imo State Police Command has responded to a widely shared video depicting police officers from its command assaulting a man on the Owerri–Aba Road.
The video shows the officers slapping and kicking the man, who appeared to be a passenger in a public service vehicle.
In a released statement, the command's spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, announced that the officers involved have been identified as Inspector Ofem Obongha, Inspector Obinna Okereke, and Sergeant Anayo Ekezie, all from the Safer Highway Unit.
Okoye added that, following a review of the video, the Command held an internal disciplinary hearing, in accordance with Nigeria Police Force 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. Inspectors Obongha and Okereke were severely reprimanded for failing to exercise proper supervisory control, which allowed the unprofessional conduct to occur.'' the statement read.
The police spokesperson stated that the state's Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has condemned the officers' actions, calling them a violation of the Force's Code of Conduct and human rights. He emphasised the strict policy against police misconduct and pledged to take suitable action against anyone found guilty.
The Command has encouraged the public to report any instances of police misconduct via the Complaints Response Unit (CRU), X-Squad Unit, or by calling 08033424051 or 0814 802 4755. The Command is dedicated to transparency, professionalism, and safeguarding the rights of the public.