Police Officer Under Investigation for Land Dispute Involvement as AIG Zone 13 Orders Probe

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 13, has initiated a comprehensive investigation into allegations of police interference in a civil land dispute. This follows a petition received by the Police Service Commission (PSC) accusing an officer of acting beyond his professional jurisdiction.

According to the PSC’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, the petition alleges that Inspector James, attached to the Zonal Headquarters in Ukpo, was involved in a land matter contrary to police regulations. In response, the Zone 13 Police Command affirmed its commitment to enforcing the PSC’s directives, warning that officers who violate professional ethics by engaging in civil disputes do so at their own risk.

This investigation comes in the wake of a February 22, 2025, warning from the PSC, which condemned reports of human rights violations and police interference in civil matters across Southeast states. The commission had explicitly instructed officers to stay clear of land disputes, debt collection, marital issues, and other non-criminal cases, cautioning that violators would face severe consequences.

Despite ongoing sensitization and training sessions aligned with the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), some officers continue to defy these orders. The Zone 13 Command expressed concern over this disregard for professionalism, stressing that such actions damage the reputation of the Force.

To ensure accountability, the IGP X-Squad has been assigned to investigate the allegations against Inspector James, with findings expected to be made public upon completion. Additionally, the Zone 13 Command has urged members of the public to report any police misconduct. Complaints can be directed to the Zonal Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO), CSP Ihunwo Josephine, or submitted to the Zonal Public Complaint Bureau (ZPCB) and the Zonal Complaint Response Unit (ZCRU) at the Zonal Headquarters in Ukpo.

Reaffirming its commitment to human rights and international best policing practices, the Command assured the public of transparency in handling the matter. Citizens are encouraged to stay updated through official police communication channels.