Nigerians React as Police Officer Threatens to Kill Anyone Filming Him on Duty

Police

A disturbing viral video showing a Nigerian police officer threatening to kill anyone who records him while on duty has once again raised serious concerns about police brutality, abuse of power and accountability in Nigeria. The officer identified himself as Newton Isokpehi, claiming to have served in the Nigerian Police Force for 26 years.

In the now-deleted video, the officer angrily warned that anyone who films him during duty hours risks being shot. Even more shocking were his threats against senior officers allegedly encouraging citizens to record police activities. The video quickly spread across social media, sparking outrage among Nigerians who viewed the comments as reckless, dangerous and deeply troubling. 

A Reflection of a Deeper Problem

This incident, reflects a much larger issue within Nigeria’s policing system, a culture where some officers believe they are above the law and beyond public scrutiny.

In democratic societies, citizens have the right to document public officials performing their duties, especially law enforcement officers. Recording police activities often serves as protection against misconduct and abuse. In many cases globally, videos captured by ordinary citizens have exposed unlawful actions and helped victims seek justice.

When an officer openly threatens violence simply because someone holds up a camera, it sends a dangerous message: transparency is unwelcome.

Fear, Frustration, and Public Distrust

The officer attempted to justify his anger by speaking about the hardship police officers face, including poor welfare and dangerous working conditions. He even displayed what he claimed were gunshot wounds suffered during service. 

While many Nigerians acknowledge the difficult realities faced by police officers, frustration cannot excuse threats against innocent civilians. Instead of building sympathy, the video has further weakened public trust in the police force.

For years, Nigerians have complained about harassment, intimidation, unlawful arrests, extortion, and violence by some police officers. The #EndSARS protests of 2020 were largely driven by these long-standing grievances. Videos and citizen recordings played a major role in documenting abuses during that period. This latest incident therefore touches a national nerve.

The Power of Cameras in Modern Policing

Technology has changed policing worldwide. Today, smartphones act as tools of accountability. Citizens no longer rely only on official statements; they can document events in real time.

Ironically, many police departments around the world now use body cameras themselves to improve transparency and protect both officers and civilians. Threatening people for recording police activity only creates suspicion and fear. If officers are performing their duties professionally, there should be little reason to fear public documentation.

Following public backlash, reports emerged that the officer later apologized for his comments.   However, many Nigerians believe an apology alone is not enough. There are growing calls for proper investigation and disciplinary action to demonstrate that threatening citizens with violence is unacceptable.

The Nigerian Police Force also faces a bigger challenge; rebuilding public confidence. That cannot happen through intimidation. It requires accountability, better welfare for officers, proper training, and respect for citizens’ rights.

The viral video is a reminder of the fragile relationship between Nigerians and law enforcement. Citizens should never feel afraid to hold public officials accountable. At the same time, officers deserve proper support, fair treatment, and professional training that helps them respond responsibly under pressure.

Nigeria cannot build trust between the police and the public through fear. Trust grows through transparency, professionalism, and respect for human life.