The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Abaniwonda Olufemi, has initiated an investigation into the actions of police officers allegedly responsible for the shooting of a Vigilante Commander and two members of the Idjerhe Kingdom’s vigilante group.
This announcement was conveyed through a statement by the State Police Command Spokesman, DSP Bright Edafe, affirming the commitment to thoroughly investigate the incident.
The development follows the arrest and detention of the implicated officers within 24 hours of the reported incident, which triggered protests across Idjerhe Kingdom.
The detained officers are accused of assaulting the vigilante group in Jesse town, the traditional headquarters of Idjerhe Kingdom, on January 30, 2024, resulting in injuries to Mr. Freeborn Ofeshohwo (Cornerstone) and two others, Friday Johnson and Enor Young.
Commissioner Olufemi condemned the shooting and assured the community, particularly the families of the injured victims, of the command’s dedication to ensuring justice.
The statement, titled ‘Re-Protest, Anger As Policemen Shoot Idjerhe Kingdom Vigilante Leaders And Two Others: CP Abaniwonda Olufemi Condemns The Act, Orders The Detention Of The Officers Involved, And SCID To Commence A Full-Scale Investigation’, emphasized the commencement of a thorough investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
It further stated, “The CP wishes to reiterate that it’s not in the character of the Command to trample on the rights of citizens, assault, or use their rifles without recourse to Force Order 237.”
The Commissioner warned against unprofessional conduct among officers, affirming a commitment to upholding the standards of professional policing.
In response to the incident, Chief Onosia James Obriki, the Otota of Idjerhe Kingdom, denounced the attack, calling for a thorough investigation and prosecution of the officers involved. He urged the Inspector General of Police and the State Commissioner of Police to ensure justice is served.
Meanwhile, the injured victims are currently undergoing medical treatment for their severe injuries. The Commissioner urged calm among the community members, assuring them of due process and justice.