The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi after a viral video showed him threatening to shoot anyone who records him while on duty.
The officer, who serves within the command, sparked widespread outrage after he was seen in a video warning passengers in a commercial bus that anyone filming him would be “shot dead.”
In the footage, ASP Isokpehi—dressed in mufti and speaking in Pidgin English—repeatedly issued threats not only against anyone recording him, but also against other passengers in the vehicle.
He also criticised senior police authorities for encouraging citizens to record officers on duty, insisting that such actions would lead to violent consequences.
The Nigeria Police Force officer further questioned why civilians frequently record police officers but do not do the same to military personnel or DSS operatives.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Ngozi Ezeabata, the police said the officer was quickly identified and taken into custody after the video surfaced online.
According to the statement, internal disciplinary procedures have already begun, and the officer has also been subjected to a drug test as part of ongoing investigations.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as unprofessional and capable of undermining public trust in the police.
He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force will not tolerate misconduct, abuse of power, incitement, or any behaviour that damages its public image.
The command assured that the outcome of the investigation will be made public and that any officer found guilty will face appropriate sanctions.
Authorities also urged police personnel to remain professional and calm in the line of duty, especially in situations where their actions may be recorded by members of the public.
They further encouraged citizens to continue documenting and reporting incidents that could help improve accountability within the security system.