The Nigeria Police Force has begun disciplinary proceedings against four officers over alleged unprofessional conduct and ethnic remarks during a stop-and-search operation.
Okay News reports that the action followed the circulation of a video showing the officers confronting a motorist on the Lagos-Benin Expressway.
The Force said the officers had been identified and taken into custody after the recording drew public criticism online.
In the video, one of the officers was allegedly heard making derogatory comments about the motorist’s ethnic background. The incident also raised questions about the conduct of police personnel during routine searches.
The Nigeria Police Force said the officers would face an orderly room trial under its internal disciplinary procedures.
It added that the Inspector-General of Police had directed the relevant authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and ensure that appropriate sanctions were imposed if the allegations were established.
The Force condemned ethnic profiling and said discriminatory conduct was inconsistent with its professional standards and constitutional responsibility to protect all Nigerians.
Police authorities also urged members of the public to report misconduct through official complaint channels and provide evidence that could support investigations.
The disciplinary process comes amid continued public concern about extortion, harassment and abuse during stop-and-search operations across Nigeria.
The identities and ranks of the four officers had not been publicly disclosed at the time of publication.
