AfriPulse
May 21, (THEWILL) — The Nigeria Police Force has commenced disciplinary action against ASP Newton Isokpehi following a viral video in which the officer was seen making threatening remarks against members of the public filming police activities.
In the now widely circulated clip, the officer allegedly warned citizens against recording police operations and made intimidating comments directed at individuals capturing the scene on their phones, triggering widespread public criticism on social media.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent with the ethics and standards of the Police.
The statement, signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the Police hierarchy took cognisance of the viral video and immediately moved to address the matter.
According to the statement, the officer’s utterances ran contrary to ongoing reform initiatives aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, professionalism, and citizen-focused policing across the country.
“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,” the statement read.
The Police further reiterated the position of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, that citizens have the lawful right to record police officers carrying out their duties, provided such recording does not obstruct operations, compromise safety, or interfere with legitimate police activities.
The Force disclosed that ASP Isokpehi had since been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Police Command headquarters, where immediate disciplinary procedures had already commenced.
The statement stressed that the Police would not tolerate threats, intimidation, abuse of office, or any conduct capable of undermining public trust and confidence in law enforcement institutions.
Reaffirming its commitment to accountability and transparency, the force maintained that recording police activities remains a legitimate civic tool that should not attract harassment or intimidation from police personnel.
It also assured Nigerians that the outcome of the disciplinary measures against the officer would be communicated in due course.
The police leadership thanked members of the public for their continued support and constructive engagement in efforts to strengthen professionalism and improve policing standards nationwide.
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