The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, has ordered the removal of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Oyigbo Police Division following allegations of extortion and abuse of office.
The action follows claims by a human rights activist that the officer extorted ₦500,000 from an individual who was allegedly arrested and detained without any known offence. The activist shared what was described as proof of payment on social media.
The activist also accused the DPO of filing what was described as a questionable charge against a woman, alleging that she stole her own children during a dispute with her estranged husband. According to the claims, the woman was subsequently remanded in a correctional facility based on the charge.
Reacting to the allegations on Sunday, June 21, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, ASP Blessing Agaba, confirmed that the command had received complaints against the officer.
She stated that the DPO had been relieved of his duties pending the outcome of an investigation, stressing that the move reflects the command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism.
According to Agaba, CP Adepoju directed the immediate removal of the officer to ensure a thorough, fair and unbiased investigation into the allegations.
She added that the Commissioner of Police had assured residents that the matter would be handled diligently and professionally.
Part of the statement read: “The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a publication circulating on various online platforms alleging misconduct involving a Divisional Police Officer within the command.
“The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Olugbenga Adepoju, has expressed deep concern over the allegations and reiterated that the command will not tolerate misconduct, abuse of office, or any action capable of eroding public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
“In response to the allegations and in line with the command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, the officer concerned has been immediately removed from his position pending the outcome of a thorough and impartial investigation.”
