The Ebonyi State Police Command has condemned the actions of an officer caught in a viral video threatening a passenger with a rifle. The incident, which has sparked public outrage, is being investigated, with the Command promising to take swift disciplinary action.
The viral video, widely shared on social media, shows the officer brandishing his rifle in an aggressive manner while engaging in a heated argument with a passenger. The officer’s actions, seen as a violation of the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) ethics and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), have drawn condemnation from citizens who are demanding accountability.
Eyewitness reports suggest the confrontation escalated after a disagreement between the officer and the passenger during a routine stop. In the video, the officer can be heard issuing threats while holding his rifle in a manner that many viewers found intimidating and unprofessional.
In a statement released on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed that the officer involved has been identified and is currently under investigation. According to Ukandu, the officer’s conduct is unacceptable, and disciplinary measures have already been initiated.
“The Ebonyi State Police Command views this incident with utmost seriousness. The officer’s actions are a clear breach of professional conduct, and we assure the public that a thorough investigation is underway. Appropriate disciplinary actions will follow based on the findings,” Ukandu said.
He further urged the public to remain patient while the investigation is being conducted and reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and public safety.
The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Anthonia Adaku Uche-Anya, has reiterated her commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring that officers adhere to the Nigeria Police Force’s professional standards.
She emphasized that the Command would not tolerate any form of misconduct or abuse of power and assured the public that officers found guilty of violating their code of conduct would be held accountable.
“Our duty is to protect and serve the public with dignity and respect. Any officer who fails to uphold these values will face the full weight of disciplinary procedures. This Command is committed to ensuring that all personnel conduct themselves with integrity,” Uche-Anya stated.
The Commissioner also encouraged members of the public to report incidents of police misconduct through the Command’s official complaint channels.
The viral video has triggered widespread public criticism, with many Nigerians expressing concerns over police brutality and the abuse of power by law enforcement agents.
Social media users have flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, demanding that the officer be sanctioned. Many argue that unchecked misconduct undermines public trust in the police and raises concerns about citizens’ safety during encounters with law enforcement.
A human rights organization, Civil Rights Watch, has also weighed in on the incident. In a statement, the group called for a transparent investigation and emphasized the need for police officers to undergo regular human rights training.
“We condemn any form of police intimidation or violence against civilians. The police must operate within the boundaries of the law and respect citizens’ rights. This case must be handled with transparency, and the officer involved should face appropriate consequences,” the statement read.
The Ebonyi State Police Command has assured the public that the investigation will be thorough and transparent. SP Joshua Ukandu emphasized that the officer’s behavior does not reflect the values of the Nigeria Police Force and that steps are being taken to prevent future occurrences.
In addition, the Command is reportedly reviewing its training protocols to ensure that officers are better equipped to handle situations with professionalism and restraint.
Members of the public are urged to report any incidents of police misconduct, as the Command remains committed to fostering a safe and respectful environment for all.
According to the police statement, the officer will face an internal disciplinary panel to review the evidence and determine the appropriate punitive measures. Depending on the findings, the officer could face suspension, dismissal, or legal action if his behavior is found to violate criminal laws.
The police have promised to update the public once the investigation is concluded.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about police behavior and the need for increased oversight and accountability. As the investigation progresses, the public remains watchful, hoping for a fair and decisive outcome that reinforces the principle that no officer is above the law.