The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed a viral video that allegedly shows officers molesting a pregnant woman, stating that the footage is outdated and unrelated to the ongoing enforcement of Third Party Vehicle Insurance in the state.
The video, which sparked outrage across social media, purportedly showed police personnel in Akwa Ibom rough-handling a pregnant woman. Many online commentators linked the incident to the recent clampdown on vehicle owners who failed to comply with the Third Party Vehicle Insurance policy. However, the state police have described these claims as false and misleading.
Police Clarification: ‘The Video is Old’
In response to the controversy, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Akwa Ibom State, Tifon John, categorically debunked the allegations. He stated that the video in circulation was from a past incident and had no connection to the insurance policy enforcement currently underway in the state.
“That video is an old clip from a past incident. It has nothing to do with Vehicle Insurance enforcement. Those sharing it are just being mischievous,” John said in an interview with Vanguard.
He further revealed that there was more to the incident than what was shown in the viral video. “Let me also tell you that there’s another video they won’t post. We have it. There is something the woman did. I can tell you the husband came to apologize, and we have the videos and evidence.”
Despite the clarification, many Nigerians remain skeptical, with social media users questioning the police narrative. Some critics argue that law enforcement agencies in Nigeria have a history of dismissing allegations of misconduct, even in the face of video evidence.
Public Outrage and Calls for Investigation
The video initially sparked widespread condemnation from human rights activists, civil society groups, and ordinary Nigerians who accused the police of excessive force. Many demanded a thorough investigation and disciplinary measures against the officers involved.
Another user, @NGJustice, tweeted, “Even if the video is old, does it change the fact that officers acted in a brutal manner? Instead of defending themselves, the police should focus on accountability.”
Police Insist on ‘Human-Centered’ Approach
Despite the criticisms, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command reiterated its commitment to professionalism and the protection of human rights. PPRO John emphasized that the Commissioner of Police, Bala Mohammed Azare, had implemented measures to prevent incidents of police abuse during the enforcement of the vehicle insurance policy.
“CP Azare has taken proactive steps to ensure that officers remain professional during enforcement. There have been consultations, stakeholder engagements, and enlightenment campaigns aimed at educating both the public and the police on their rights and responsibilities,” John explained.
He further assured the public that the command would take any allegations of misconduct seriously and investigate complaints where necessary.
Background: Third Party Vehicle Insurance Enforcement
The controversy surrounding the viral video comes amid an aggressive enforcement campaign by the Akwa Ibom State Police to ensure compliance with Third Party Vehicle Insurance. The insurance policy, which is mandatory for all vehicle owners in Nigeria, is meant to provide financial protection in case of accidents involving third parties.
However, many residents have complained about the manner in which the enforcement is being carried out. Some have accused officers of using it as an opportunity to extort money from motorists.
“I was stopped last week by officers who claimed my insurance papers were fake. They refused to listen when I tried to explain that my insurance was valid,” said Uduak Akpan, a taxi driver in Uyo. “They only let me go after I paid N5,000.”
Similar reports have surfaced on social media, with many calling for an independent review of the enforcement process.
A History of Police Brutality Allegations
The Nigerian Police Force has long been plagued by allegations of brutality, extortion, and abuse of power. The #EndSARS protests of 2020, which saw thousands of Nigerians take to the streets to demand an end to police brutality, highlighted deep-seated issues within the force. Although the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) was eventually disbanded following the protests, many citizens argue that the culture of impunity among police officers remains largely unchanged.
The viral video from Akwa Ibom has reignited conversations about the need for better oversight and accountability in the Nigerian police system.
