The Nigeria Police Force has condemned the conduct of a police officer caught on video making threatening remarks against members of the public who were filming police activities, ordering immediate disciplinary action against the officer.
The Force identified the officer in the viral social media video as ASP Newton Isokpehi, stating that his conduct and utterances were “unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent with the ethics, standards, and code of conduct of the Nigeria Police Force.”
In a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the NPF said the officer’s actions run contrary to ongoing reform initiatives aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused policing.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu has maintained that members of the public have the right to lawfully record officers carrying out their duties, provided such recording does not obstruct operations, compromise safety, or interfere with lawful police activities.
ASP Isokpehi has since been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Command Headquarters, where disciplinary procedures have commenced. The Force said it “does not tolerate threats, intimidation, abuse of office, or any conduct capable of undermining public trust and confidence in law enforcement institutions.”
The NPF reaffirmed that recording police activities remains a legitimate tool for public accountability and should not attract harassment or intimidation from officers on duty.
A formal statement detailing the outcome of the disciplinary measures will be issued in due course.
