DeeOne Warns IGP Against Statements That Incite Unrest
Comedian and activist DeeOne has called on the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to avoid making reckless comments that could provoke another nationwide protest.
The entertainer stated this yesterday in a viral Instagram video, reacting to reports that the IGP advised Nigerians not to record police officers while on duty.
The IGP had urged citizens to exercise restraint in recording officers, saying the practice is demoralising to the police.
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But DeeOne said such remarks were dangerous, warning that they could embolden undisciplined officers to continue harassing Nigerians on the road.
“Very soon, there might be another #EndSARS protest in Nigeria. The IGP made a careless statement yesterday, saying citizens should not record police. He said we should allow police to do their job,” he said.
The comedian recalled that viral videos of police brutality were what triggered the 2020 #EndSARS protests.
“I beg, which kind of country are we running? If you care about citizens, why shouldn’t we record officers in public? It’s for our safety. Police are supposed to have body cameras. Some good officers even record you first,” he added.
DeeOne also alleged that some officers on duty are mentally unfit and under the influence of drugs.
“I went to a police station the other day, one of the officers was high. His colleagues told me to leave him. Imagine that kind of person on the road with a gun. These little things can trigger a country,” he said.
He urged the IGP to focus on building trust between the police and the public instead of making statements “to impress the police.”
“Your job is to ensure harmony and synergy between the police and citizens. No police officer is greater than citizens. Once they wear that uniform, they feel they are greater than you,” he stated.
DeeOne therefore commended the Nigerian Bar Association for calling the IGP to order over the comment.
Meanwhile the IGP has not issued a fresh statement on the matter as of the time of filing this report.
BY ABDULBAQI JIBREEL AJAO
