Rivers Civil Protection Removes Director Over Alleged Extortion

Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju has ordered the immediate suspension of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Oyigbo Police Division following allegations of extortion and abuse of office.

The directive comes after a rights activist accused the officer of collecting five hundred thousand naira from a man who was reportedly arrested and detained without any established offence.

The activist said he had posted evidence of the alleged payment on social media and also alleged that the officer had filed a questionable charge against a woman.

Police Public Relations Officer Blessing Agabe stated that the officer had been removed from duty in line with the Command’s commitment to accountability, transparency and professional conduct.

Agabe explained that Commissioner Adepoju ordered the DPO’s removal to allow a full and unbiased investigation into the allegations.

The statement read in part: “The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a publication circulating on various online platforms alleging misconduct involving a Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the Command.”

“In response to the allegations and in line with the Command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, the officer concerned has been immediately relieved of his duties pending the outcome of a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter,” the statement added.

Commissioner Adepoju assured the public that the investigation would be conducted in a diligent, professional and unbiased manner.

“The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and service delivery. The Command also appreciates the vigilance of members of the public and encourages citizens to continue reporting incidents of misconduct through appropriate channels,” the statement concluded.