The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has commenced disciplinary proceedings against four officers captured in a viral video allegedly acting unprofessionally and making derogatory ethnic remarks toward a member of the public during a stop-and-search operation on the Lagos-Benin Expressway, Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Police, Ani Iniedu, said on Saturday.
The officers were identified as AP/No. 207454 ASP Elomore Sodayo, AP/No. 332012 Inspector Adefila Adewale, AP/No. 332449 Inspector Olorunfemi Opeyemi, and AP/No. 332369 Inspector Odusola Peter.
The viral clip showed a heated confrontation between the officers and a motorist, reportedly a United Kingdom returnee, who challenged their attempt to stop and search him.
During the exchange, the driver accused the officers of intimidation, ethnic profiling and attempting to extort him, and the Police officer said: “I just see that we are very close. If you were Igbo or another person, I would have just I’d have asked you to park…” before gesturing toward the roadside.
Iniedu said in the statement that the officers are facing orderly room trial, adding that Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, had directed the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
“The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, has been directed to conduct a full and transparent investigation to determine each officer’s level of involvement and ensure appropriate sanctions are applied,” the statement read.
The police leadership condemned the officers’ conduct, stressing that it was inconsistent with the values and standards of the Force.
“The conduct shown in the video does not reflect the values of the Nigeria Police Force. Ethnic profiling and disrespect toward any citizen will not be tolerated, and officers who fall short of the Force’s standards of professionalism and respect will be held accountable,” the statement added.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and accountability, saying it would continue to promote ethical policing and strengthen public confidence.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fair, ethical policing and to earning the trust of the communities it serves,” the statement said.
