ASP Threatens to Shoot Citizens Filming Police Officers

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi threatened to shoot anyone caught recording police officers while on duty, a statement that circulated widely on social media and triggered outrage among Nigerian rights groups. The incident occurred during a public interaction, where Isokpehi warned, "We will clear everybody down," which many interpreted as a direct threat to citizens exercising their constitutional rights.

Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu condemned the remarks, urging police authorities to take disciplinary action against Isokpehi. Following the backlash, he released an apology, admitting that citizens have the right to film police officers performing their public duties.

Isokpehi explained that his comments were made out of frustration due to operational distractions faced by armed officers. Despite his apology, concerns about police brutality and the implications of his statement remain sensitive issues in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Police Force confirmed that administrative steps had been taken regarding the incident, though they did not disclose the specific nature of any disciplinary measures.