The Abia State Police Command has taken swift action following the circulation of a viral video showing some officers manhandling a civilian along Lagos Street in Umuahia.
The incident, which occurred on February 20, 2025, sparked outrage, prompting the command to identify and interrogate the officers involved at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
In a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, it was confirmed that necessary administrative actions would be taken after investigations.
Furthermore, the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, condemned the officers’ actions, emphasizing that such conduct violates professional standards and the fundamental duty of law enforcement to protect, not harm, civilians.
While this response is a step in the right direction, it is not enough to simply investigate and reprimand those involved. If found guilty, these officers must face strict disciplinary measures that will serve as a deterrent to others in the force.
The Nigerian police have long struggled with issues of brutality, excessive use of force, and misconduct, leading to a breakdown of trust between officers and the public. This incident presents an opportunity for the Abia State Police Command to set a precedent—one that shows that law enforcement officers are not above the law.
A Strong Message Must Be Sent
To deter future cases of police brutality, the officers involved must be made an example of. This means imposing penalties that are not just symbolic but have real consequences, such as:
- Suspension or Dismissal: Officers found guilty of excessive force should face immediate suspension or dismissal, depending on the severity of their actions. Keeping them in service would only reinforce the culture of impunity.
- Public Accountability: The findings of the investigation and the disciplinary measures taken should be made public to assure citizens that justice has been served. Secret internal reviews often lead to minimal consequences, which encourages further misconduct.
- Criminal Prosecution if Warranted: If the officers’ actions amount to criminal assault, they must be prosecuted like any other citizen. This would send a clear message that police officers are not above the law.
- Mandatory Human Rights Training: Beyond punishment, the force should implement mandatory human rights training for all officers, emphasizing de-escalation techniques and respect for civilian rights.
Restoring Public Trust in Law Enforcement
For years, police brutality has been a pressing issue in Nigeria, sparking protests and demands for reform. The public is tired of seeing officers who are supposed to protect them turn into aggressors. By taking strict action in this case, the Abia State Police Command has a chance to restore some level of public trust and prove that they are committed to upholding justice.
Commissioner Isa has already stated that under his leadership, the police force will remain professional, rule-of-law compliant, and people-friendly. Now is the time to back those words with action. If officers see that brutality leads to severe consequences, they will think twice before engaging in such misconduct.
The people of Abia, and Nigeria as a whole, will be watching closely to see how this case is handled.
The police must ensure that their response is firm, fair, and transparent. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. The era of impunity for rogue officers must come to an end.
