The Rivers State Police Command has removed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Oyigbo Police Division following allegations of extortion, unlawful detention and abuse of office.
The officer’s removal was ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, after allegations surfaced on social media accusing the DPO of extorting ₦500,000 from an individual who was allegedly arrested and detained without committing any known offence.
The allegations were made by a rights activist who also shared what he claimed was evidence of the payment made to secure the victim’s release.
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The activist further accused the officer of facilitating what he described as a questionable prosecution involving a woman allegedly charged with stealing her own children during a custody dispute with her estranged husband.
According to the claims, the woman was subsequently remanded in a correctional facility based on the charge, sparking criticism from rights advocates and members of the public.
Reacting to the allegations, the Rivers State Police Command confirmed it had received complaints regarding the conduct of the officer and had commenced an investigation.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the command said the commissioner had ordered the immediate removal of the DPO from his position pending the outcome of a thorough and impartial investigation.
“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 (DPO)in the command,” the statement said.
It added that CP Adepoju expressed deep concern over the allegations and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism, transparency and accountability.
“The officer concerned has been immediately removed from his position pending the outcome of a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter.”
The commissioner also assured members of the public that the investigation would be conducted diligently and without bias.
The development comes amid growing calls for greater accountability within the Nigeria Police Force as concerns persist over cases of alleged extortion, abuse of office and unlawful detention.
Rights groups and residents are expected to closely monitor the outcome of the investigation as the police command works to determine the veracity of the allegations.
