The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has commenced disciplinary proceedings against Newton Isokpehi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), over a viral video showing him threatening members of the public filming police activities.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the police described the officer’s conduct and remarks in the video as unacceptable and unprofessional.
“The Force wishes to state unequivocally that the conduct and utterances exhibited in the video are unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent with the ethics, standards, and code of conduct of the Nigeria Police Force,” parts of the statement read..
The police added that the officer’s actions contradicted ongoing reform efforts aimed at promoting accountability, professionalism and citizen-focused policing.
IGP Olatunji Disu has repeatedly stated that Nigerians have the right to lawfully record police officers carrying out their duties.
“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 police stated.
According to the police, Isokpehi has been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters. The force said disciplinary procedures against the officer had already commenced.
“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 statement reads.
“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 police stated.
The police reiterated that recording police activities is a legitimate tool for public accountability and transparency.
“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 statement added.
The force said the outcome of the disciplinary process would be communicated to the public in due course.