The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, has ordered an immediate investigation into a viral video showing police officers allegedly harassing a resident of the state.
The viral video showed at least five uniformed officers hovering over a person lying on the ground close to a white bus. In the clip, one officer was seen pulling the individual’s legs while another struck him with a plastic pipe. Despite the individual’s visible struggle, he was quickly overpowered by the group of officers.
In a statement released, the state police command imagemaker, Eno Ikoedem, said the Commissioner upon seeing the video, convened an emergency meeting with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Heads of Departments, and commanders of tactical teams across the state.
She mentioned that during the session, the police chief emphasised the lawful use of force and reiterated the provisions of Force Order 237, alongside the need for civility, professionalism, and respect for citizens’ fundamental human rights in all engagements.
He directed senior officers to immediately cascade the directives to rank-and-file personnel, stressing that compliance with the Force’s rules of engagement remains non-negotiable.
The CP also issued a stern warning to supervisory officers, stating that any commander who allows misconduct under their watch would be held accountable.
The command further urged members of the public to report complaints through its designated channels, including its emergency control room numbers 08077773721 &
08037646272 and complaint response units, assuring residents of prompt response and continued commitment to professional policing.
Edo added that all the officers in the viral video have been identified and detained.
