Due to accusations of extortion and abuse of authority, Olugbenga Adepoju, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, dismissed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Oyigbo Police Division in the state’s Oyigbo Local Government Area.
According to Naija News, the move came after a rights activist claimed on Friday that the DPO had demanded ₦500,000 from a person who had supposedly been apprehended and held at the station without any known offense.
The activist accused the officer of bringing what he called a ludicrous allegation against a mother, claiming that she snatched her own children during a fight with her estranged husband. He also posted proof of the payment on social media.
The activist, whose identity was hidden, claimed that the charge led to the woman’s subsequent confinement in a correctional custodial facility, a move he denounced.
Blessing Agabe, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, responded to the accusations in a statement released on Sunday, stating that the command has received complaints against the Oyigbo DPO.
According to Agabe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, the officer was fired in order to conduct a comprehensive and unbiased inquiry.
According to her, the choice was consistent with the command’s dedication to openness, responsibility, and professionalism.
The statement stated, “A publication currently circulating on various online platforms alleging misconduct involving a Divisional Police Officer in the command has drawn the attention of the Rivers State Police Command.”
According to Agabe, Adepoju conveyed his strong disapproval of the accusations and promised the public that the issue will be thoroughly and impartially probed.
The statement continued, “Olugbenga Adepoju, Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, expressed his deep dismay over the incident and reiterated that the command will not tolerate any form of misconduct, abuse of office, or actions capable of undermining public trust and confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.”
“The officer in question has been immediately removed from his position pending the outcome of a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter, in response to the allegations and in accordance with the command’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and professionalism.”
Residents were further reassured by the command that the inquiry would be conducted professionally and that appropriate action would be taken in accordance with the findings.
