Step Rights Magazine Pralarg Magazine
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest and disciplinary investigation of ASP Newton Isokpehi following the circulation of a viral video in which the officer allegedly threatened to kill citizens who record police officers during operations.
The incident, which sparked widespread outrage on social media, drew condemnation from both the Anambra State Police Command and the Force Headquarters in Abuja, with authorities reaffirming that Nigerians have the lawful right to record police activities carried out in public.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, ASP Isokpehi was identified and taken into custody shortly after the disturbing footage surfaced online. In the video seen by Step Rights Magazine, the officer, dressed in civilian clothing and speaking in Pidgin English, angrily warned members of the public against filming police personnel.
The officer allegedly declared that anyone caught recording him or other police officers during operations could be “shot dead,” while also threatening innocent passengers inside the commercial vehicle where the recording was made.
The footage further captured the visibly agitated officer lamenting the welfare conditions faced by policemen in Nigeria. He criticised senior police authorities who had previously encouraged citizens to film officers while carrying out official duties, insisting such leaders would be responsible for “burying” anyone who attempts to record policemen.
Isokpehi also questioned why civilians frequently film police officers but rarely record soldiers or operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Ngozi Ezeabata, the Anambra Police Command confirmed that internal disciplinary procedures had commenced against the officer.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the Command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, strongly condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as inconsistent with the standards and ethics of the police institution.
“The Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence,” the command stated.
The command assured residents that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public and warned that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with police regulations and applicable laws.
Meanwhile, the Force Headquarters in Abuja also issued a separate statement titled “NPF Condemns Threatening Conduct by Police Officer in Viral Video, Orders Immediate Disciplinary Action.”
In the statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the police described the officer’s remarks as “unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent” with ongoing police reform initiatives aimed at improving accountability and citizen-focused policing.
The statement further reiterated the position of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who has repeatedly maintained that members of the public have the right to lawfully record police officers performing their duties, provided such recordings do not obstruct operations or compromise public safety.
“The Force further reiterates that recording police activities remains a legitimate tool for public accountability and transparency and should not, in itself, attract harassment or intimidation from police personnel while discharging their duties,” the statement added.
The Nigeria Police Force also thanked members of the public, civil society organisations, and social media users for providing information capable of improving transparency and accountability within the security system.
Legal Angle
Under Nigeria’s constitutional framework, citizens generally retain the right to document public officials performing duties in public spaces, provided such recording does not obstruct lawful operations or compromise national security. Human rights advocates have consistently argued that public recordings of law enforcement officers serve as an important accountability mechanism against abuse of power and misconduct.
The latest incident comes amid increasing public debate over police professionalism, accountability, and citizens’ rights during interactions with security agencies across Nigeria.
Conclusion
The arrest of ASP Newton Isokpehi marks another major test for ongoing police reform efforts in Nigeria. While the swift response by the police leadership has been welcomed by many observers, rights groups are expected to closely monitor the disciplinary proceedings to determine whether the force’s commitment to accountability translates into concrete sanctions and institutional reforms.