By Odeh Favour Adiya
The Nigeria Police Force has reacted to a viral video that sparked widespread public outrage on social media, in which an armed officer threatened to shoot members of the public for recording him while on duty.
In a statement issued via its official X handle by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Force condemned the conduct of the officer, describing his behaviour as unacceptable and unprofessional.
The officer has been identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi, who was seen in the video warning that he would open fire on any person filming him, including passengers in a bus, while carrying out his duties. He also claimed to have served in the Force for 26 years.
The police high command said the conduct contradicts ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force aimed at improving accountability, transparency, and professional policing standards.
According to the statement, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has consistently maintained that citizens have the right to lawfully record police officers in the discharge of their duties, provided such actions do not obstruct operations or endanger public safety.
The Force further disclosed that ASP Isokpehi has been traced, apprehended, and summoned to the Anambra State Command Headquarters, where disciplinary proceedings have already commenced.
It stressed that the Nigeria Police Force maintains zero tolerance for intimidation, abuse of power, or any conduct capable of undermining public trust in law enforcement.
Reassuring the public, the Force reiterated that the right of citizens to document police activity remains protected, urging officers to operate within the bounds of the law and professional ethics.
The police authorities added that further updates on the outcome of the disciplinary process will be communicated in due course.
