The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory, Miller Dantawaye, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Ushafa Division after a viral video showed him slapping a young man during an arrest.
The incident, captured on camera and widely circulated on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, triggered outrage among Nigerians who described the officer’s conduct as unprofessional and a clear abuse of power.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said the Commissioner condemned the officer’s actions, describing them as “unacceptable and inconsistent with the core values and ethics of the Nigeria Police Force.”
“The Commissioner of Police strongly condemns the officer’s actions, which fall short of the high standards of discipline, civility, and professionalism expected of police officers,” Adeh stated.
She explained that the officer has been recalled to the command headquarters pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation into the incident.
“Consequently, the officer has been redeployed, and the situation is currently under investigation,” Adeh added.
The police chief also used the opportunity to warn all Divisional Police Officers and their subordinates to maintain professionalism and courtesy in the discharge of their duties, warning that any form of misconduct or abuse of power would attract severe disciplinary measures.
“While administrative disciplinary steps are being taken, CP Dantawaye reminds all officers to remain professional, courteous, and law-abiding in performing their duties,” the statement read.
“Any act of misconduct or abuse of power will not be tolerated.”
The Commissioner further urged residents of the FCT to cooperate with the police and maintain mutual respect to enhance community policing and public safety.
“Mutual respect and cooperation are essential for effective community policing and ensuring public safety,” Dantawaye noted.
The command also encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities or any form of police misconduct through designated communication channels.
This is not the first time a police officer has faced redeployment over misconduct.
In a similar incident earlier this year, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, redeployed the DPO of the Enu-Owa Division after a video surfaced online showing a social media influencer, Adefolarin Ayomiposi (popularly known as Mandykiss), allegedly mishandling a case involving a mother and daughter.
Likewise, in June, the FCT Police Command launched an investigation into another viral video in which officers were accused of harassing a motorist along the Chikakore Bridge area during a routine patrol.
According to Adeh, the command remains committed to ensuring accountability and professionalism across all ranks.
