As the Nigeria Police Force tasks officers on professionalism and respect for fundamental rights, Chronicle NG reports that the following officers in Rivers State were found wanting and punished for public assault: Inspector Adejoh Siaka was deranked to Sergeant, while Sergeant Ndiwa Kpuebari was severely reprimanded, according to the statement communicated by CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Public Relations Officer.
Following the complaints and findings on video evidence widely circulated on Sunday, April 9, 2023, on social media of assault, discreditable conduct, and incivility to members of the public at Emouha, Rivers State, and a follow-up orderly room trial of the affected policemen by the Force Provost Marshal, one Adejoh Siaka has been reduced in rank from Inspector to Sergeant.
Similarly, one Sergeant Ndiwa Kpuebari, who was also present at the scene but took no steps to discourage such an inappropriate and shameful act, was severely reprimanded.
However, one Inspector Friday Obaka, who was later discovered to have been absent from the scene of the skirmish, was discharged unconditionally at the conclusion of the proceedings. In all, the three policemen will be posted out of Rivers State to other commands and formations to continue their police duties.
The Inspector General of Police has therefore tasked officers and men of the Force to be diligent and uphold the lofty tenets of professional policing in the discharge of their duties with respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).