Imo Police Command Demote Officers Caught Assaulting Civilian on Camera
The Imo State Police Command has taken disciplinary action against three officers filmed assaulting a man along the Owerri–Aba Road.
In the viral video circulating on social media, the officers — attached to the Safer Highway Unit — were seen slapping and kicking the man, reportedly a passenger in a commercial vehicle.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, the officers involved were identified as Inspector Ofem Obongha, Inspector Obinna Okereke, and Sergeant Anayo Ekezie.
Following an internal review and an orderly room trial in accordance with police disciplinary procedures, the Command found Sergeant Anayo Ekezie guilty of using his smoke gunner during the assault. He has been demoted to the rank of Corporal. Inspectors Obongha and Okereke received severe reprimands for failing to exercise proper supervisory control.
Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, strongly condemned the incident, labeling it a violation of the Nigeria Police Force Code of Conduct and fundamental human rights. He reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct and assured the public that all erring officers will be held accountable.
The Command encouraged members of the public to report cases of police misconduct via the Complaints Response Unit (CRU), X-Squad Unit, or through the hotlines: 0803 342 4051 and 0814 802 4755.
Imo Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the protection of citizens’ rights.