Asaba, Delta State – July 28, 2025 – The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, has ordered a disciplinary action known as an orderly room trial for six police officers caught on video brutally assaulting a young man in Asaba, the state capital.
The video, which went viral on social media on Sunday, showed disturbing footage of the officers beating, dragging, and tearing the clothes of the young man. The incident reportedly occurred near the Asaba Specialist Hospital on Okpanam Road.
What Happened?
An X (formerly Twitter) user, @ChuksEricE, first posted the video, writing:
“Between Nigerian police officers and a young man near Asaba Specialist Hospital, Okpanam Road, Delta State.”
Another user, @dammiedammie35, added that an eyewitness claimed the young man had told the officers not to plant anything illegal in his bag during a stop-and-search. He reportedly asked the officer to show his hands before searching the bag — a move that allegedly triggered the violent response from the officers.
Police Reaction: “Barbaric and Unprofessional”
Reacting to the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Delta State, SP Bright Edafe, condemned the officers’ actions as “barbaric and unprofessional.” He said the six officers have been identified and summoned to the Delta State Police Headquarters in Asaba.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered that they be detained and face an orderly room trial,” Edafe stated in an official release. “Their Team Leader, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), has also been formally queried.”
What is an Orderly Room Trial?
An orderly room trial is an internal disciplinary process within the Nigeria Police Force, where officers accused of misconduct are tried by a panel. If found guilty, they could face punishments ranging from suspension and dismissal to criminal charges, depending on the offense.
CP Olufemi: “Such Conduct Won’t Be Tolerated”
CP Abaniwonda Olufemi stressed that brutality and harassment are not in the character of the Delta State Command. He promised that the officers involved would be dealt with strictly according to the Police Act and regulations.
“Under my leadership, this type of misconduct will not be tolerated. Justice will be served,” CP Olufemi assured.
The CP also appealed to the public for calm and encouraged anyone with more information about the victim to contact the police directly, either through DM (direct message) or by visiting the PPRO’s office.
Why This Story Matters
In Nigeria, this story is a reminder of your rights as a citizen. It shows that:
- Police officers are not above the law.
- You have the right to ask questions during a police stop, including verifying their identity and actions.
- Social media can be powerful in exposing abuse and demanding accountability.
- The police are expected to protect citizens, not harm them — and when they do, they can be held responsible.
The Delta State Command’s swift response shows that public pressure works, and more importantly, that you have a voice. If you ever feel unsafe or mistreated by law enforcement, speak up, record (if safe), and report it.
