On Wednesday, the Nigeria Police Force announced the arrest of a Supernumerary Police Officer who had publicly criticized Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki. The officer had urged residents to avoid voting for the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate, Àsue Ighodalo, accusing both Obaseki and Ighodalo of corruption and misconduct.
In a video that circulated widely, the officer claimed that the upcoming election was not just about choosing between the APC, PDP, and Labour parties, but about addressing alleged misdeeds by Obaseki and Ighodalo. He accused them of undermining democracy, misappropriating state resources, and driving the state into debt. The officer further alleged that Obaseki and Ighodalo had used public funds to establish Globus Bank and had engaged in corrupt practices, including using state resources for personal gains.
He also suggested that Obaseki had evaded consequences due to his gubernatorial immunity, but warned that he would be held accountable once his term ended. According to the officer, Obaseki’s alleged crimes would be addressed after his immunity expired.
In response, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi condemned the officer’s remarks. He clarified that Supernumerary Police Officers are private individuals who receive specific security training from the Nigeria Police but are not regular officers. Adejobi stated, “The Nigeria Police Force strongly disapproves of the statements made by this individual, who is not a regular police officer but a Supernumerary Police Officer employed by a private entity. While these officers are allowed personal political affiliations and freedom of speech, using an official SPY uniform for political purposes is inappropriate.”
Adejobi confirmed that the officer has been arrested and is under investigation. He emphasized that the comments made by the officer do not represent the views of the Nigeria Police Force. The public was urged to disregard the statements and continue to trust in the Police’s commitment to neutrality and the rule of law.
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