Following the running over of a citizen by police personnel in Ekpoma, Edo State, the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate disbandment of the State Command team.
According to a statement issued by Force headquarters through Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi, disbanding the squad is “a bold move to address the unprofessional conduct of some Police officers attached to the Edo State Police Command.”
“The purpose of this step is to regularize and standardize police operations in the axis, as well as to restore public trust in the Police Force.”
“In addition, the operatives are currently facing disciplinary charges and administrative procedures.”
“This action demonstrates the IGP’s commitment to hold officers accountable for their actions, which will never be tolerated in the Nigeria Police Force.”
“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, while urging members of the public to always cooperate with Police Officers in the discharge of their statutory duties,” according to the statement.
We previously reported that a team of policemen with their official vehicle (a black sienna bus provided by the Edo State Government) ran over a handcuffed middle-aged man who had been asked to lie down by the policemen in the university town of Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area last Thursday.
People gathered in front of the police truck, evidently watching the handcuffed man on the ground, before the driver moved, crushing and dragging him on the ground for nearly 100 meters while disregarding shouts from the crowd.
The act, however, sparked outrage in the throng, which was immediately dispersed by gunshots fired by police officers.
The officers involved were arrested and imprisoned at the State Criminal Investigation Department shortly after.
Chidi Nwabuzor, the State Police spokesperson, identified the victim as Success Ehimare.
He claimed he was “intercepted” with an unregistered Lexus sedan and allegedly refused to hand the officers the vehicle’s documents.
According to him, the victim was treated at a hospital and was in good condition following the incident.
Mismob Media