I will clear everybody down — ASP threatens to shoot Nigerians videoing police officers

An Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, has faced criticism after a TikTok video that has since been removed was posted online. The clip shows the officer threatening Nigerians who film police officers while they are on duty.

In the video, Isokpehi warned that he would shoot anyone caught recording him during operations. He said, “Any day I’m on duty as a Nigerian police officer, 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.”

The remarks sparked outrage among Nigerians and media commentators, many of whom described the comments as dangerous and unlawful.

Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu condemned the statements and called for disciplinary action against the officer. Several Nigerians also tagged police authorities in social media posts demanding his removal.

Following the backlash, Isokpehi apologized for his comments, acknowledging that citizens have a constitutional right to record police officers performing public duties. He explained that his outburst was the result of frustration over distractions faced by armed officers during operations.

The ASP also cited personal struggles, including surviving a bullet wound and poor welfare conditions within the force.

The Nigeria Police Force confirmed that administrative actions are already being taken in response to the incident.

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