Disciplinary action has been commenced against the policeman, Obioma O. Obi who was seen in a viral video assaulting #EndSARS protesters.
This was confirmed by Imo police commissioner, Isaac O. Akinmoyede in a statement released by the state’s police spokesperson, Ikeokwu Godson Orlando.
The police commissioner noted that it is within the rights of the citizens to express their concerns through protest and other legitimate means.
The statement read “The Commissioner of Police, Imo state, CP Isaac O. Akinmoyede, psc, FDC, MNIM, has condemned the unprofessional conduct by a police officer, captured in a trending video, attempting to assault some protesting citizens against alleged human rights violations by personnel of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Imo State, today, 8th October 2020. The CP notes that the conduct displayed by the officer is not a true reflection of the ethics, standards, values and training of the Nigeria Police Force. The CP, while noting that disciplinary action has already commenced against the erring officer, however, observes that much as it is within the rights of the citizens to express their concerns through protest and other legitimate means, they should do so in a peaceful manner, devoid of violence and disruption of public peace and order. The CP calls on the people of Imo State to exercise restraint and be patient with the ongoing reforms on SARS and other Tactical Squads of the Force. He reassures that the Command will fully comply with the directives of the IGP towards preventing any violation of the rights of the citizen and improving on the working relationship between the Command and residents of the State.”