On Tuesday, March 18, the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, ordered an investigation into accusations of police brutality and extortion by students at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, located in Ikot Ekpene.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, shared this news on Tuesday, March 18, in a statement. She explained that the Commissioner of Police made the decision after meeting with student leaders and school officials in his office in Uyo.
“The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has ordered a thorough investigation into allegations of police brutality and extortion raised by students of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua,” she said. “In an effort to address their concerns, the Commissioner of Police spoke with the school’s management, the Students’ Union Government (SUG), and other representatives in a peaceful discussion aimed at building understanding and improving relations between students and the police.”
During the meeting, the Commissioner of Police assured everyone that the police are committed to respecting human rights and keeping everyone safe, including students. He strongly condemned any police officer who behaves inappropriately, saying that any officer found guilty would be held responsible and face punishment according to the law.
He also used the meeting as an opportunity to encourage better communication between students and the police. “It’s important for students and law enforcement to work together, trust each other, and keep the environment safe,” he emphasized.
The Police Public Relations Officer added that the police are already taking steps to reduce crime and improve security in the area by using smart strategies and gathering information.
Earlier that same day, students from AkwaPoly, led by the President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Comrade Geoffrey George, protested on the streets of Ikot Ekpene. They were raising their voices against the alleged police brutality and extortion, among other issues.
