The Lagos State Police Command has identified Inspector Osumah Frank as the officer featured in a viral video making inappropriate ethnic and political remarks while travelling in a public commercial vehicle.
The Command said it had commenced appropriate disciplinary action against the inspector in line with the established regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.
In the viral footage, Inspector Frank, who was dressed in a police uniform, was heard making controversial remarks about ethnic identity and political leadership in Nigeria. He reportedly stated that an Igbo person could never become President of Nigeria and also made remarks concerning the political ambitions of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, as well as President Bola Tinubu and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.
Reacting to the video, the Command said the statements made by the officer were made in his personal capacity and did not represent the position, views or official disposition of the Lagos State Police Command or the Nigeria Police Force.
The statement, issued by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the disciplinary process had been initiated against the officer in accordance with established police regulations.
However, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, reiterated that all personnel are expected to maintain professionalism, civility, discipline and respect for members of the public at all times.
Fatai stressed that wearing the police uniform comes with the responsibility to uphold the dignity and integrity of the Force, regardless of an officer’s personal views.
The Command said it would not condone conduct capable of bringing the Force into disrepute or undermining public confidence in the Police.
It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and policing with humility and integrity.
