KEY POINTS

• The Anambra Police Command arrested ASP Newton Isokpehi after a viral video showed him threatening to shoot anyone recording him on duty.
• The officer has been subjected to disciplinary proceedings and a drug test as investigations continue.
• Police authorities condemned the officer’s behaviour and promised that the outcome of the investigation and any sanctions would be made public.

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a police officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi, after a viral video showed him threatening to shoot anyone who attempted to record him while carrying out official duties.

The controversial video, which circulated widely across social media platforms including X, Instagram, and TikTok, triggered outrage among Nigerians and human rights advocates. In the footage, the officer was heard issuing threats in Pidgin English, warning that he would “clear everybody down” if anyone tried to film him during operations.

The officer also made remarks suggesting that even superior officers who authorised the recording of policemen would be forced to “bury” citizens he threatened to kill. The comments drew heavy criticism online, with many Nigerians condemning the language as reckless, intimidating, and unprofessional.

Reacting swiftly to the incident, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed that the officer had been identified and taken into custody.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu.

According to the statement, the command immediately commenced internal disciplinary procedures against ASP Isokpehi in line with the ethical standards and regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.

The police authorities stated that the officer’s conduct was inconsistent with the values of professionalism and discipline expected from officers of the force.

Officer Apologises After Backlash

Following widespread condemnation, ASP Isokpehi reportedly deleted the original video from his TikTok account and later released another video apologising for his comments.

In his apology, the officer claimed his remarks were made out of frustration. However, the explanation did little to calm public anger, as many social media users continued to demand disciplinary action and accountability.

The police command stressed that the matter would not be overlooked despite the apology, insisting that officers must maintain professionalism regardless of circumstances.

As part of the ongoing investigation into the incident, the police command revealed that the officer had also undergone a drug test.

Authorities explained that the test forms part of efforts to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure a transparent investigation process.

The command assured the public that all findings from the investigation and disciplinary proceedings would be made public once concluded.