The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory, Miller Dantawaye, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Ushafa Division after a viral video showed him slapping a young man during an arrest.
The incident, captured on camera and circulated widely on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, triggered outrage among Nigerians who described the officer’s conduct as unprofessional and abusive.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the commissioner condemned the officer’s behaviour, describing it as “unacceptable and contrary to the 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,” the statement read.
Adeh confirmed that the officer had been redeployed to the command headquarters pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.
“Consequently, the officer has been redeployed, and the situation is currently under investigation,” she added.
Dantawaye warned all Divisional Police Officers and subordinates in the FCT to maintain professionalism and civility while discharging their duties, warning that any act of misconduct or abuse of power would attract severe sanctions.
“While administrative disciplinary steps are being taken, CP Dantawaye reminds all DPOs and their subordinates that they must remain professional, courteous, and law-abiding in the discharge of their duties,” Adeh quoted him as saying.
The commissioner further urged residents to maintain mutual respect and cooperation with the police to promote community safety and effective policing in the nation’s capital.
Meanwhile, Adeh clarified that the officers had approached a vehicle parked suspiciously for over 20 minutes along the FO1–Chikakore Road before the altercation occurred.
“Upon approaching the vehicle, officers found two male occupants and proceeded to question them. One of the men reacted aggressively, accused the officers of harassment, and tried to attract public attention,” she explained.
The Commissioner of Police has since summoned all officers involved in the incident to ensure transparency and accountability in the investigation.
