The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Ushafa Division after a video surfaced showing him slapping a young man during an arrest.
The now viral video, which surfaced on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, triggered outrage among Nigerians, many of whom condemned the officer’s behaviour as unprofessional and a gross abuse of power.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, the commissioner described the officer’s conduct as “unacceptable and contrary to the ethics of the Nigeria Police Force.”
“The Commissioner of Police strongly condemns the officer’s actions, which fall short of the high standards of discipline, civility, and professionalism expected of police officers,” Adeh said.
She added that the embattled officer had been redeployed to the command headquarters pending the conclusion of an internal investigation into the incident.
“Consequently, the officer has been redeployed, and the situation is currently under investigation,” the statement added.
CP Dantawaye further cautioned all Divisional Police Officers and their subordinates in the FCT to maintain professionalism and civility while performing their duties, warning that any act of misconduct or abuse of power would attract severe disciplinary sanctions.
“While administrative disciplinary steps are being taken, CP Dantawaye reminds all DPOs and their subordinates that they must remain professional, courteous, and law-abiding in the discharge of their duties,” Adeh quoted the commissioner as saying. “He warns that any act of misconduct or abuse of power will attract severe sanctions.”
The commissioner also called on residents to uphold mutual respect and cooperation with law enforcement personnel to enhance public safety and community policing efforts in the territory.
“Mutual respect and cooperation are essential for effective community policing and public safety,” he said.
The FCT Police Command encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities or any form of police misconduct through its official communication channels.
