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Ag IGP Kayode Egbetokun
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the alleged abduction and extortion of a TikToker by some officers of the Rivers State Police Command, describing it as a gross violation of human rights and a manifestation of the endemic Police brutality in Nigeria.
The group, in a statement issued on Thursday, said it was appalled by the video posted by the victim, who identified himself as @thekaypersona on TikTok, narrating how he was picked up by Police officers while on a boat trip and held for ransom at a Police station.
The group said the video, which has gone viral on social media, exposed the horrific ordeal of the victim who claimed he was not told why he was arrested or where he was being taken. He said he was eventually forced to pay ₦50,000 to secure his release after spending several hours in a cell.
HURIWA said the incident was one of the many cases of professional indiscipline and misconduct in the Nigeria Police Force, which, it said, have become unprecedented.
HURIWA urged the Rivers State Police Command to ensure that a thorough investigation into the allegations made by @thekaypersona is carried out and that those found culpable are brought to justice. It also advised Nigerians to continue to document and report cases of police brutality and human rights abuse to relevant authorities and organizations.
The group also commended @thekaypersona for his courage and willingness to engage with the police and his assistance in ensuring transparency and accountability. It said his video has raised public awareness about the plight of many Nigerians who suffer similar or worse treatment from Police officers.
HURIWA called on all Nigerians to join hands in demanding an end to Police brutality and impunity in Nigeria. It said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to victims of human rights violations.
It advised the federal government to stop appointing former Inspectors-General of Police as chief executives of Police Service Commission (PSC) and also make the body to be financially autonomous for it to be effective in disciplining erring Police personnel.
