The Edo State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding a viral video circulating on social media, stating that the incident involved a 23-year-old man, David Michael, who was experiencing a medical emergency at the time officers intervened.
In a press release issued by the Command and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command said an internal investigation was ordered by the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, following public concern generated by the video.
According to the police account, the investigation established that the young man seen in the footage was undergoing convulsions and became physically aggressive during the episode. The Command stated that police officers who responded to the scene were attempting to restrain him in order to prevent harm to himself and others, while also seeking to transport him urgently to a medical facility for treatment.
The police explained that a portion of the incident was recorded from a distance by an onlooker who, according to the statement, did not have full knowledge of the circumstances leading to the intervention. The Command said this partial recording contributed to what it described as a misleading interpretation of the event after it circulated online.
The statement added that a follow-up video was later produced by individuals involved, including David Michael, to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Command expressed hope that the corrective video would receive similar public attention as the original viral clip.
While maintaining that the officers’ actions were carried out in response to an emergency, the Edo State Police Commissioner reiterated that all police operations must comply with professional standards, respect for human rights, and established operational guidelines.
CP Monday Agbonika directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Heads of Departments, and tactical unit commanders to reinforce training in basic first aid for personnel. He also emphasized adherence to lawful use of force principles and Force Order 237, which governs police conduct in operational situations.
The Commissioner further stressed the importance of maintaining public trust and ensuring that police interventions are conducted with civility and professionalism, particularly in sensitive situations involving civilians in distress.
The Command stated that it remains committed to accountability, transparency, and the protection of residents across Edo State, adding that it will continue to investigate incidents that generate public concern.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report emergencies or lodge complaints through designated police communication channels. The Command provided contact numbers for the Emergency Control Room, Public Complaints Bureau, and Complaints Response Unit for prompt response and accountability.
The clarification comes amid heightened public sensitivity to police conduct in Nigeria, particularly in cases involving viral videos that often generate debate on the use of force and emergency response procedures.
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