Police Dismiss Three Officers For Killing UNIPORT Graduate In Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has dismissed three officers accused of being involved in the death of Anthony Obodo, a Port Harcourt resident.

The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, announced the decision on Wednesday while parading the officers in Port Harcourt.

Police described Obodo as a student, although some media reports identified him as a graduate of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).

According to Adepoju, the incident happened on August 27 at about 5:30pm.

He said a patrol team from the Agip Police Division, led by Fabian Banabari, was returning from a special assignment at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium when the officers noticed a black Lexus with heavily tinted windows.

Adepoju said the officers tried to stop the vehicle, but the driver allegedly refused to stop and drove away, prompting the patrol team to pursue the vehicle.

During the pursuit, Alfred Louis, a police corporal attached to the team, allegedly fired his weapon at the vehicle, hitting the driver.

“The victim was immediately rushed to Palmars hospital, Port Harcourt, where he was attended to and subsequently confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” Adepoju said.

“The three members of the patrol team were immediately arrested and detained at the state CID, Port Harcourt, where a comprehensive investigation into the case was carried out.

“Efforts were also intensified to locate and arrest inspector Solomon Nwogu, who reportedly absconded following the incident.

“Following the conclusion of the investigation and the establishment of the complicity of the police involved, they have been tried in an orderly room with the other officer at large and recommended for dismissal from the Nigerian Police Force. 

“They will subsequently be charged to court to face the appropriate criminal charges in accordance with the law.”

Adepoju said the Rivers police command would continue to uphold professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights and the protection of lives and property.

He stressed that the command would not protect officers who break the law, adding that allegations of misconduct would be investigated fairly.

“The action taken against these officers demonstrates that the Nigerian Police Force will not shield personnel who abuse the powers entrusted to them or act contrary to the law and professional standards of the force.

“Let me reiterate that no police officer is above the law. Let me reassure you that the case will be charged to court,” he added.

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