Police derank officer, reprimand another for assaulting civilian in Rivers

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has deranked one officer and reprimanded another for assaulting a civilian in Rivers.

In a video clip that was shared on social media, a police officer holding his rifle is seen hitting a man with a cane while another officer pushed a lady into a car.

Muyiwa Adejobi, NPF spokesperson, said the officers involved in the “barbaric” act had been arrested and would face trial.

Adejobi identified the police officers as Adejoh Siaka, Friday Obaka, and Ndiwa Kpuebari.

In a statement on Tuesday, the NPF said the officers had been posted out of Rivers as an additional disciplinary measure.

“Subsequent to complaints and findings on video evidence widely circulated on Sunday 9th April 2023, on social media of assault, discreditable conduct, and incivility to members of the public, at Emouha, Rivers state, and a follow-up orderly room trial of the affected policemen by the Force Provost Marshal, one Adejoh Siaka has been reduced in rank from Inspector to Sergeant,” the statement reads.

“Similarly, one Sergeant Ndiwa Kpuebari who was also present at the scene but took no steps to discourage such an inappropriate and shameful act was severely reprimanded.

“However, one Inspector Friday Obaka, who was later discovered to have been absent from the scene of the skirmish was discharged unconditionally at the conclusion of the proceedings.

“In all, the three policemen will be posted out of Rivers state to other commands and formations to continue their police duties.”

The statement added that the inspector-general of police tasked officers of the force to be diligent and uphold the tenets of professional policing in the discharge of their duties with respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens.