By Abdulmumini Ashiru
The Rivers state police command says it has dismissed three officers linked to the alleged killing of Anthony Obodo, a resident in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Olugbenga Adepoju, police commissioner in Rivers, announced the dismissal on Wednesday in Port Harcourt while parading the three officers.
The police identified the victim as a student, but media reports described him as a graduate of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).
Recounting the circumstances surrounding the victim’s death, Adepoju said on August 27 at about 5:30pm, a patrol team from the Agip division, led by Fabian Banabari, was returning from a special duty at the Yakubu Gowon stadium when the team sighted a black, fully tinted Lexus vehicle.
He said the officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver allegedly sped off, prompting the patrol team to pursue it.
The police commissioner said during the pursuit, Alfred Louis, a corporal attached to the team, allegedly opened fire, hitting the driver.
“The victim was immediately rushed to Palmars hospital, Port Harcourt, where he was attended to and subsequently confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” Adepoju said.
“The three members of the patrol team were immediately arrested and detained at the state CID, Port Harcourt, where a comprehensive investigation into the case was carried out. Efforts were also intensified to locate and arrest inspector Solomon Nwogu, who reportedly absconded following the incident.
“Following the conclusion of the investigation and the establishment of the complicity of the police involved, they have been tried in an orderly room with the other officer at large and recommended for dismissal from the Nigerian Police Force.
“They will subsequently be charged to court to face the appropriate criminal charges in accordance with the law.”
Adepoju said the command places a high premium on professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights, and the protection of life and property.
He said the command would not protect any officer found to have violated the law, adding that all allegations of misconduct would be investigated fairly and professionally.
Adepoju said the dismissal of the officers demonstrates the police’s commitment to accountability.
“The action taken against these officers demonstrates that the Nigerian Police Force will not shield personnel who abuse the powers entrusted to them or act contrary to the law and professional standards of the force. Let me reiterate that no police officer is above the law. Let me reassure you that the case will be charged to court,” he added.
