Nigeria’s Acting Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbedokun, has summoned the policemen who were detained for their involvement in a shocking incident of police brutality in Ekpoma, Edo State, South-South Nigeria.
Edo State is about 425 kilometres away from Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.
The officers, who were driving an official police vehicle, ran over a middle-aged man who was already handcuffed, dragging him through the road. This incident has caused great apprehension in the area.
In response to this appalling act, the Acting IGP has taken swift action by ordering the erring officers to report to the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Monday. This move demonstrates the commitment of the Nigerian Police Force to hold its officers accountable for their actions.
In a statement issued by Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, it was made clear that the Acting IGP strongly condemns this disturbing incident. The statement read, “The IGP has, therefore, directed the erring policemen, who have been in detention in Edo State, to report to the Force Headquarters Abuja on Monday for further action.”
Furthermore, the Force spokesperson reassured the public, especially the residents of Ekpoma, that the Nigerian Police Force will not tolerate unprofessional conduct from its officers. He urged everyone to remain calm, stating, “Members of the public, particularly the people of Ekpoma, are implored to remain calm as the present leadership of the NPF will not condone such an act of unprofessionalism and illegality.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of police brutality in Nigeria. Instances like these highlight the need for greater accountability and reform within the police force. The Nigerian government and law enforcement agencies must work together to address this problem and ensure that all citizens are treated with dignity and respect.
