The video, which has sparked widespread outrage and concern, shows a police officer allegedly telling a citizen, “If you were Igbo, I would’ve detained you.”
The statement has been interpreted by many as a hate crime, raising fears about ethnic discrimination and violence targeting the Igbo community in Nigeria.
The incident reportedly took place on a highway, where the police officer was conducting routine checks. In the video, the officer’s words appear to suggest that the motorist’s ethnicity would influence whether he was detained or not.
Critics argue that such comments promote ethnic profiling and undermine the principles of justice and equality.
The viral nature of the video prompted calls for swift action from authorities, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over what they perceive as an act of hate speech by a law enforcement officer.
In response to the mounting pressure and public outcry, the Nigerian Police CRU issued a statement on Friday, July 24, 2026.
Their official tweet reads: “The officers in this viral video have been identified, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP @TunjiDisu1 have summoned them for questioning and further disciplinary actions. #NoToImpunity.”
Reactions from the public and civil society groups have been swift and vocal. Many Nigerians have expressed disappointment and anger, condemning the officer’s remarks as divisive and dangerous.
Some have called for the officer to be prosecuted for hate speech, arguing that such statements threaten national unity and promote ethnic tensions.
Others have used the incident to highlight the need for comprehensive training for police officers on human rights and ethical conduct, emphasizing that law enforcement officials should serve all citizens equally regardless of their ethnicity.
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