The Divisional Police Officer of the Oyigbo Police Division in the state’s Oyigbo Local Government Area has been sacked by Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju due to allegations of extortion and abuse of office.
The expulsion of the DPO came after a rights activist claimed on Friday that the DPO had extorted ₦500,000 from a person who had been detained at the station without a recognized offense.
In addition, the activist who posted proof of the payment on social media claimed that the officer favored what he called an absurd accusation against a woman, accusing her of kidnapping her own children during a fight with her separated husband.
The activist claims that the allegations led to the woman’s subsequent confinement in a correctional custodial facility, a move he denounced.
However, the command acknowledged receiving the allegations against the Oyigbo DPO in a statement released on Sunday by Blessing Agabe, the state police command spokeswoman.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Agabe stated that the DPO’s dismissal was consistent with the command’s dedication to openness, responsibility, and professionalism.
According to her, CP Adepoju’s decision to remove the DPO from his position as soon as possible will allow for a comprehensive and unbiased inquiry into the claims.
However, she stated that the public has been reassured by the Commissioner of Police that the inquiry will be carried out with diligence, professionalism, and objectivity.
“The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a publication currently circulating on various online platforms alleging misconduct involving a Divisional Police Officer in the command,” the statement states in part.
Olugbenga Adepoju, the Commissioner of Police for Rivers State Command, expressed his profound sadness over the occurrence and reaffirmed that the command will not put up with any misconduct, misuse of power, or acts that could erode public faith 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.”
