Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 11 Headquarters, Osogbo, Bassey Ewah, has ordered an investigation into an alleged assault involving some police officers in Ede, Osun State.
The incident came to public attention after a video circulating on social media on Wednesday showed some police personnel allegedly assaulting a suspect in the town.
Reacting to the footage, Ewah expressed serious concern over the conduct of the officers and stressed that the Nigeria Police Force does not condone brutality, intimidation or abuse of power by its personnel.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ojedele Tunji, said the officers captured in the video had been identified and that steps had been taken to investigate the incident.
“The AIG wishes to inform the public that the officers involved in the incident have been identified, and necessary steps have been initiated to ensure that the matter is thoroughly investigated,” the statement said.
Ewah acknowledged the constitutional responsibility of police officers to enforce the law and maintain public order, but said such duties must be carried out professionally and with restraint.
He stressed that police personnel must respect the fundamental rights and dignity of every individual while performing their duties.
According to him, any officer found guilty of misconduct or violating established police regulations would face appropriate disciplinary action in line with the laws and regulations governing the Nigeria Police Force.
The AIG also reaffirmed the commitment of Zone 11 to accountability, transparency, respect for human rights and the protection of lives and property.
He emphasised that no police officer was above the law, warning that the uniform must never be treated as a licence to violate citizens’ rights.
Ewah urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from drawing premature conclusions while the authorities conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
He further reassured residents of Osun and Oyo states that Zone 11 Headquarters would continue to uphold professionalism, discipline and accountability in policing.
The police authority said the investigation was also aimed at sustaining public trust and confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
