Anambra Police Arrest Officer Who Threatened to ‘Clear Everybody Down’ in Viral Video

Viral Video Shows Officer Threatening to “Clear Everybody Down”

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested an Assistant Superintendent of Police, Newton Isokpehi, after a video of him threatening to shoot anyone who recorded him on duty went viral on social media.

In the footage that spread rapidly on X and Instagram, Isokpehi — speaking in Pidgin English and dressed in mufti — warned civilians directly. “Any day I’m on duty, let anyone record me. That person will provide the officer who gave them the order to be filming us, because I will clear everybody down,” he said in the clip.

The officer went further, saying that senior police authorities who had encouraged citizens to record officers on duty would be responsible for burying those who tried. He also questioned why civilians film police officers but not soldiers or DSS operatives.

Officer Arrested, Drug Tested

The police command said Isokpehi was swiftly identified and taken into custody. A statement signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Ngozi Ezeabata on behalf of Commissioner Ikioye Orutugu confirmed that internal disciplinary proceedings have been activated.

“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” the statement read.

Orutugu strongly condemned the officer’s conduct, saying the Nigeria Police Force “will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence.”

“I Didn’t Mean It”

Following the backlash, Isokpehi posted a second video apologising. “I made the statement out of anger. Please forgive me. You can record us on duty, just that some Nigerians have taken it beyond necessary,” he said.

“You shouldn’t treat us like that. Please forgive me, I didn’t mean it like that. I can’t kill my people,” he added.

The apology did little to calm the online reaction. The incident reignited conversations about citizens’ rights to film security personnel — something the Nigeria Police Force has previously affirmed is allowed as long as it does not obstruct operations.

The command assured that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public and that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.

Sources: Punch, Sahara Reporters, Pulse, Premium Times