The Lagos Police Command has identified and arrested a police officer who made viral comments affirming that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, or any Igbo person can never be elected the president of Nigeria. The officer, Inspector Osumah Frank, was traveling in a commercial bus when he made the remarks, which were captured on video. The video sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, Inspector Osumah made the comments in his personal capacity, and they do not represent the position, views, or official disposition of the Command or the Nigeria Police Force. The Command's spokesperson, Adebisi Abimbola, described the remarks as careless, inappropriate, and uncultured. The incident has raised concerns about the professionalism and conduct of some police officers.
The viral video showed Inspector Osumah claiming that only President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku are suitable to be elected Nigeria's President. His comments were widely criticized, with many calling for disciplinary action against him. The Lagos Police Command has commenced appropriate disciplinary action against Inspector Osumah in line with established regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Lagos State Police Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, has reiterated that all personnel are expected to maintain professionalism, civility, discipline, and respect for members of the public at all times. He emphasized that wearing the Police uniform comes with a responsibility to uphold the dignity and integrity of the Force. The Commissioner reaffirmed that the Command will not condone any conduct capable of bringing the Force into disrepute or undermining public confidence in the Police.
The Lagos Police Command has emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and policing with humility and integrity. The Command's spokesperson, Adebisi Abimbola, quoted the Commissioner as saying that the Force will continue to work to rebuild public trust and confidence. The incident has sparked a renewed focus on the need for police officers to maintain high standards of professionalism and conduct.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has not commented on the incident. However, his supporters and members of the Igbo community have expressed outrage and disappointment over Inspector Osumah's comments. The incident has highlighted the need for greater sensitivity and understanding among police officers, particularly in a diverse and multicultural society like Nigeria.
The arrest of Inspector Osumah Frank has been seen as a positive step towards addressing concerns about police conduct and promoting accountability within the Force. The Lagos Police Command's swift action has been welcomed by many, who hope that it will serve as a deterrent to other officers who may be tempted to make similar inflammatory comments.
Key points
- The Lagos Police Command has arrested Inspector Osumah Frank for making inflammatory remarks about Peter Obi and the Igbo people.
- The Command has commenced disciplinary action against the officer, who made the comments in his personal capacity.
- The incident has highlighted the need for greater professionalism and sensitivity among police officers in Nigeria.
