The Edo State Police Command has responded to a viral video showing an aide to Governor Monday Okpebholo threatening to hand over members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the police while insulting former presidential candidate Peter Obi in the presence of the Edo Commissioner of Police.
In the circulating clip, the governor’s aide, who is also described as a praise singer, was heard saying any ADC member found in the state would be handed over to the police commissioner. He also referred to Peter Obi as a “stupid man.” During the exchange, the Commissioner of Police was seen smiling.
Some Nigerians interpreted the commissioner’s reaction in the video as silent approval of the aide’s comments.
However, in a statement issued on April 24, police spokesperson ASP Eno Ikoedem said the commissioner did not support, adopt, or associate himself with the remarks. The statement added that the comments are being reviewed for any possible security concerns beyond comedy or showmanship.
Read the statement below
‘’The attention of the Edo State Police Command has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media, showing the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, on official duty. In the video, one Emmanuel Eghogho, a well known comedian in Benin City, was seen making certain remarks.
The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the comments made in the video by the said Emmanuel Eghogho are entirely those of the individual concerned and do not in any way reflect the views, position, or disposition of the Commissioner of Police or the Edo State Police Command. At no point did the Commissioner of Police endorse, adopt, or align himself with the remarks made. However, those remarks are being diligently interrogated for any security implications other than that of comedy and showmanship.
For the avoidance of doubt, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc remains a thorough professional and a non-partisan officer who is fully committed to the constitutional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force.
It will be recalled that the Command had earlier called on all political parties, their supporters, and the general public to conduct their political activities peacefully, lawfully, and without hindrance. The Command reiterates that every individual and group is free to pursue their legitimate political interests in accordance with the law.
However, the Command wishes to strongly warn that any act of violence, incitement, thuggery, or any conduct capable of undermining public peace and security will not be tolerated under any guise. Anyone found engaging in acts capable of breaching public order will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.
The Edo State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace, public safety, and the protection of democratic processes across the State.”
