The Force Headquarters has announced the demotion of an officer serving in Rivers State, Adejoh Siaka, from the rank of Inspector to Sergeant, over alleged misconduct bordering on assault, and “discredit- able” outing. Also punished based on the same offence is Sergeant Ndiwa Kpuebari, who was severely reprimanded. Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who made the disclosure in a statement, yesterday, said both personnel underwent an orderly room trial, after video evi- dence showed them assaulting some persons in Emouha in Rivers State.
Another officer, Inspector Friday Obaka was, however, discharged, upon discovery that he was innocent. “Subsequent to com- plaints and findings on video evidence widely circulated on Sunday, 9th April, 2023, on social media of assault, discreditable conduct and incivility to members of the public, at Emouha, Rivers State and a follow-up orderly room trial of the affected policemen by the Force Provost Marshal, one Adejoh Siaka has been reduced in rank from Inspector to Sergeant,” Adejobi stated.
He added thus: “Similarly, one Sergeant Ndiwa Kpuebari who was also present at the scene, but took no steps to discourage such inappropriate and shame- ful act was severely reprimanded. “However, one Inspector Friday Obaka, who was later discovered to have been absent from the scene of the skirmish was discharged unconditionally at the conclusion of the proceedings. “In all, the three Police- men will be posted out of Rivers State to other Commands and Formations to continue their police duties.
“The Inspector General of Police has therefore tasked officers and men of the Force to be diligent and uphold the lofty tenets of professional policing in the discharge of their duties with respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).”