The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a police officer who sparked widespread outrage after a viral social media video showed him threatening to shoot anyone who attempted to record him while on duty.
In an official statement released on Thursday, the command identified the officer as Newton Isokpehi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police attached to the state command.
The controversy began on Wednesday when a video surfaced online showing ASP Newton Isokpehi issuing disturbing threats while speaking directly to a camera. In the now-viral clip, the officer, speaking in Pidgin English, warned that he would “clear everybody down,” including innocent bystanders, if anyone recorded him during his duty. He further stated that any superior officer who approved such recordings would be responsible for burying the people he threatened to kill.
The video quickly gained traction across social media platforms, particularly on X and Instagram, drawing sharp criticism from Nigerians and civil society groups.
Shortly after the backlash intensified, the officer reportedly removed the video from his TikTok page and later uploaded another video apologizing for his remarks. He explained that his comments were made out of frustration.
According to a statement signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Ngozi Ezeabata on behalf of Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu, the command acted immediately after discovering the video.
The statement noted that following a prompt review of the footage, the command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. It further stated that internal disciplinary procedures had already been activated against him in line with the ethical standards and regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.
As part of efforts to conduct a comprehensive investigation, the police also disclosed that ASP Isokpehi had been subjected to a drug test to establish all surrounding circumstances related to the incident and ensure a transparent process.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu strongly condemned the officer’s conduct, stressing that such behavior does not represent the values and principles of the Nigeria Police Force. He emphasized that the force remains a disciplined institution that would not tolerate misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional conduct capable of undermining public confidence.
The command assured members of the public that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings would be made public and that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions in line with police regulations and the law.
The police also reminded officers and personnel to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their lawful responsibilities, particularly at a time when actions and conduct are constantly subjected to public scrutiny.
The command further commended citizens, civil society organizations, and social media users for contributing to accountability by bringing the incident to wider attention, while encouraging residents to continue reporting actions and behaviors capable of threatening public peace, safety, and confidence in security institutions.
