IGP Orders Mental Evaluation, Drug Test for Officer Seen Threatening Nigerians in Viral Video

Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has directed that Assistant Superintendent of Police, Newton Isokpehi, undergo mental evaluation, medical examination and drug testing following a viral video in which he threatened to shoot anyone recording him while on duty.

The directive was revealed in a statement posted on Friday through the X account of the Force New Media Officer, Aliyu Giwa, who confirmed that disciplinary action had already begun against the officer at the Anambra State Police Command.

According to the statement, the Inspector-General ordered the additional assessments to ensure a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the officer’s conduct.

The statement noted that the police authorities considered the officer’s behaviour in the video inappropriate, unprofessional and threatening, adding that the Force would not tolerate such misconduct.

It further stated that the disciplinary process would include medical and psychological assessments, alongside drug screening, as part of the investigation.

The Nigeria Police Force also reiterated that citizens have the legal right to record police officers while carrying out official duties, provided such recordings do not obstruct operations or endanger public safety.

According to the statement, lawful recording of police activities remains protected, stressing that accountability and transparency are essential in policing.

However, the Force clarified that actions capable of disrupting police operations or compromising the safety of officers and members of the public would not be protected under the law.

The police assured Nigerians that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings against the officer would be made public in the interest of transparency and accountability.