The Nigeria Police Force has condemned a viral video showing an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, making threatening remarks against members of the public allegedly filming police activities.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Office, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Police described the officer’s conduct as “unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent” with the ethics, standards and code of conduct of the Force.
The statement said the behaviour runs contrary to ongoing police reform efforts aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, professionalism and citizen-focused policing.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed that citizens have the right to lawfully record police officers performing their duties, provided such recording does not obstruct operations or compromise safety.
Following the incident, the officer has been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Command Headquarters, where disciplinary proceedings have commenced.
The Force stressed that it does not tolerate threats, intimidation, abuse of office or any conduct capable of eroding public trust in law enforcement institutions.
It further reiterated that recording police activities remains a legitimate instrument of public accountability and transparency and should not attract harassment from officers.
A formal update on the outcome of the disciplinary process, the statement added, will be communicated in due course.
