Utweets
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, has ordered a full-scale investigation into allegations of police brutality and extortion levelled by students of the State Polytechnic, Ikot-Osura, in Ikot-Ekpene Local Government Area.
A statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on Tuesday, said the directive followed a meeting between the police commissioner and the leadership of the students’ union on Monday.
The students had earlier staged a protest at the institution’s main gate, decrying what they described as rising insecurity and harassment by security operatives.
Led by the Student Union President, Geoffrey George, the aggrieved students converged around 8:15 am, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards with inscriptions such as “End Police Brutality Now,” “Protect, Save, Don’t Abuse,” and “This Extortion Must Stop.”
Addressing their concerns, CP Azare reaffirmed the command’s commitment to human rights and assured that any officer found guilty of professional misconduct would face disciplinary action.
He stated, “This peaceful dialogue is aimed at fostering understanding and strengthening police-student relations.
“The command remains resolute in upholding human rights and ensuring the safety of all citizens, including students. Any allegations of police brutality and extortion will be thoroughly investigated, and any officer found culpable will be sanctioned accordingly.”
The police boss also emphasized the need for collaboration between students and security agencies, adding that proactive measures were being put in place to curb crime and enhance safety within the host community.
He assured that under his leadership, the command would maintain the highest standards of policing while ensuring the protection of lives and property…CONTINUE READING>>
