JUST IN: Heavy Protests in Delta State

Hundreds of Nigerian youths are currently marching in Ughelli, Delta State, fervently demanding an end to unchecked police brutality and extortion.

The protesters, echoing a sentiment shared widely on social media, are calling on the Nigeria Police Force’s leadership, the Police Service Commission, and all patriotic citizens to rein in on police personnel who, as alleged, have transformed into “armed robbers in uniform.” The accusation is coupled with claims of complicity from corrupt senior officers who allegedly share the spoils with their subordinates.

@KomeNicee took to Twitter, sharing a video of the ongoing protest, highlighting the prevalence of police brutality in the state and adding urgency to the call for action.

Amidst the tumult, the Delta State Police Command has issued a stern warning to the protesting youths, asserting that their demonstrations won’t sway the police force from its constitutional duties. DSP Edafe Bright, the Command’s spokesperson, offered insight into the incident triggering the protest.

He explained, “Yesterday, 13th February 2024, policemen from Ughelli Area Command intercepted an unregistered Benz GLK without a plate number in Ekuigbo community. Confronted by the officers, the four boys inside the vehicle failed to establish ownership, leading to an attempt to arrest them. Subsequently, some of the youths attacked the police, vandalizing their vehicle and injuring one officer.”

DSP Edafe Bright added that nine suspects involved in the altercation have been apprehended and will face legal consequences, underscoring the police’s commitment to maintaining order.