FCT Police Redeploy DPO Caught Slapping Man in Viral Video

The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Miller Dantawaye, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ushafa Division after a viral video showed him slapping a young man during an arrest.

The incident, which circulated widely on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians condemning the officer’s behavior as unprofessional and abusive.

In a statement on Wednesday, FCT Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh said the Commissioner condemned the DPO’s actions, describing them as “unacceptable and contrary to the ethics of the Nigeria Police Force.”

Adeh confirmed that the officer had been redeployed to the command headquarters pending the conclusion of an ongoing investigation.

“While disciplinary measures are being taken, the CP reminds all DPOs and their subordinates to maintain professionalism, civility, and respect for human rights while performing their duties,” Adeh stated.

Dantawaye also warned that any form of misconduct or abuse of power would attract strict sanctions, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and cooperation between the police and the public to promote community safety.

According to Adeh, the altercation occurred when officers approached a vehicle that had been parked suspiciously for over 20 minutes along the FO1–Chikakore Road. One of the occupants reportedly became aggressive and accused the officers of harassment.

The Commissioner has since summoned all officers involved in the incident to ensure transparency and accountability in the investigation.

This development follows a similar case in Delta State, where a police officer was detained after a viral video showed him shooting at a moving vehicle, an act the command described as unprofessional and damaging to the image of the police.