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 viral video showed him slapping a young man during an arrest.
The video, which surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians condemning the officer’s behaviour as unprofessional and an abuse of power.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the Commissioner of Police had described the officer’s conduct as “unacceptable and contrary to the ethics and values 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,” the statement read.
Adeh added that the officer had been redeployed to the command headquarters pending the outcome of an investigation into the incident.
“Consequently, the officer has been redeployed, and the situation is currently under investigation,” she stated.
The Commissioner warned all Divisional Police Officers and their subordinates to remain professional and courteous while performing their duties, stressing that any act of misconduct or abuse of power would attract severe disciplinary measures.
“While administrative disciplinary steps are being taken, CP Dantawaye reminds all officers that they must remain professional, courteous, and law-abiding in the discharge of their duties. Any act of misconduct or abuse of power will attract severe sanctions,” the statement added.
Dantawaye also called for mutual respect and cooperation between residents and the police, noting that such collaboration was vital for effective community policing and public safety in the FCT.
The command further urged members of the public to report any incidents of police misconduct or suspicious activities for prompt action.
The development comes amid recent disciplinary actions by police authorities in other states.
Earlier this month, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, redeployed the DPO of Enu-Owa Division over alleged unprofessional conduct in a case involving social media influencer Mandykiss.