The Lagos State Police Command has taken disciplinary action against one of its officers for making comments that sparked widespread outrage. According to the police, the officer, identified as Osumah Frank, was filmed saying that Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, or any other Igbo person, can never become President of Nigeria. The incident was captured in a viral video that drew condemnation from various quarters.
The police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that the officer has been arrested and that appropriate disciplinary action has been initiated against him. Adebisi emphasized that the remarks made by the officer were in his personal capacity and do not reflect the official position or views of the Lagos State Police Command or the Nigeria Police Force. The police command has reiterated its commitment to upholding professionalism and integrity.
The incident has raised concerns about the conduct of some police officers and their utterances, which can undermine public confidence in the Force. The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, has stressed that all personnel are expected to maintain civility, discipline, and respect for members of the public at all times. The police uniform comes with the responsibility to uphold the dignity and integrity of the Force.
The police command has assured the public that it will not condone any conduct capable of bringing the Force into disrepute. The incident has sparked a renewed call for police officers to be mindful of their words and actions, which can impact the public's perception of the Force. The Lagos State Police Command has urged the public to report any instances of misconduct by police officers.
Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, has not commented on the incident. However, his supporters and other groups have expressed outrage over the officer's comments, describing them as inflammatory and divisive. The incident has highlighted the need for police officers to be more mindful of their words and actions, particularly in a country with a diverse population like Nigeria.
The Nigeria Police Force has a code of conduct that guides the behavior of its officers. The code emphasizes the importance of professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights. The Force has a responsibility to uphold the law and protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their ethnic or regional background.
The Lagos State Police Command has urged the public to cooperate with the police and report any instances of misconduct. The command has also reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability. The incident has sparked a renewed call for police reform and improved community-police relations in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Lagos State Police Command has arrested and initiated disciplinary action against an officer for making inflammatory comments about Igbo people.
- The officer's comments were made in his personal capacity and do not reflect the official position of the police.
- The incident has sparked a renewed call for police officers to be mindful of their words and actions.
