Four police officers face action over viral stop-and-search video

The Nigeria Police Force has started disciplinary action against four officers seen in a viral video. They allegedly behaved unprofessionally and made disrespectful ethnic comments during a stop-and-search on the Lagos-Benin Expressway.

The officers include one Assistant Superintendent of Police and three Inspectors. They have been identified and are in custody while waiting for a trial, according to a statement from the Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Police, Ani Iniedu.

The statement mentioned that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, instructed the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State to investigate the matter thoroughly.

“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 said.

The police leadership criticized the officers' actions, saying they do not align 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 continued.

The Force emphasized its commitment to professionalism and accountability. It stated that it will keep promoting ethical policing and build trust with the public.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fair, ethical policing and to earning the trust of the communities it serves,” the statement concluded.