The Anambra State Police Command has arrested the officer seen in a viral video threatening to shoot anyone who filmed him while on duty, confirming that disciplinary proceedings have begun against him.
The officer, identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi, is attached to the Anambra State Command.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu.
ASP Isokpehi sparked widespread outrage after a video circulated on social media on Wednesday showing him threatening to “clear everybody down,” including bystanders, if anyone attempted to record him while carrying out official duties.
Speaking in Pidgin English and addressing the camera directly, the officer also warned that any superior officer who authorised the filming of policemen would be forced to bury the citizens he threatened to kill.
The video rapidly gained traction on X and Instagram before it was later removed from his TikTok account. He subsequently posted another video apologising for his remarks, claiming they were made out of frustration.
According to the police command, immediate action was taken once the video came to its attention.
“Following a prompt review of the video, the Command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the Command.
“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer,” the statement read.
The command also revealed that the officer had undergone a drug test as part of the ongoing investigation.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the Command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” the statement added.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as unacceptable and contrary to the standards and values of the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Commissioner of Police strongly condemns the conduct displayed by the officer in the video and reiterates that the Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence,” the statement said.
The command assured residents of Anambra State and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public and that any officer found guilty would face appropriate sanctions in line with police regulations and the law.
“The Anambra State Police Command further assures Ndi Anambra and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public and that any officer found culpable will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law and police regulations,” it stated.
The police command also reminded officers and personnel of the force to remain professional, emotionally composed, and respectful while carrying out their duties, particularly at a time of heightened public scrutiny of security agencies.
In addition, the command commended members of the public, civil society organisations, and social media users for drawing attention to the incident, noting that public feedback plays an important role in promoting accountability and improving policing.
“The Command appreciates members of the public, civil society groups, and social media users who continue to assist the Police with credible information capable of improving service delivery and accountability.
“Residents are encouraged to continue reporting incidents or behaviours capable of undermining public peace, safety, and confidence in security agencies,” the statement added.
