By Othman Salihu
Following a viral video that sparked public outrage, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has taken decisive action against the three officers involved in the unruly act.
The officers were caught on video assaulting a pregnant woman who they also dragged on a tarred road.
They were found guilty of professional misconduct, following a viral video that sparked public concern. The Command, in line with its commitment to discipline, accountability, and respect for citizens’ rights, subjected the officers to an orderly room trial to ensure justice was served.
The Police Public Relations Officer(PPRO), Akwa Ibom State Command, Timfon John disclosed that the officers involved are: Inspectors Festus James and Edet Edem as well as Constable Akpan Lawrence who were all charged with discreditable conduct, unlawful and unnecessary exercise of authority.
After a thorough and fair trial, the Adjudicating Officer found them guilty and recommended the following sanctions:
The two Inspectors were reduced in rank to Sergeants while the Constable was given a major entry and placed on one month extra fatigue duty.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare upon reviewing the proceedings, upheld the judgement and further sent the proceedings to the AIG Zone 6 who also upheld the outcome of the proceedings.
CP Baba Azare further expressed that the “Nigeria Police Force under IGP Kayode Egbetokun remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring officers conduct themselves with professionalism.
“The Command assures the public that no act of misconduct will be tolerated, and erring officers will always be held accountable.
“Citizens are encouraged to report any incidents of police misconduct through the Command’s official channels” the statement concluded.
