By DEBORAH AKPEDE

The Police Command in Lagos State has launched an investigation into a viral video of its officer, struggling to apprehend a commercial bus conductor in the Ikorodu area of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the video, which went viral on social media with the caption “Lagos policeman caught assaulting bus conductor as passengers kick” showed the officer trying to forcefully drag the conductor down from his bus.

The command spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, reacting to the video in a statement on Sunday, disclosed that the incident began when the driver of the commercial bus blocked traffic, causing a gridlock and hardship for commuters.

“The police and Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials attempted to intervene when the conductor became violent.

“In the ensuing confrontation, the conductor allegedly stripped himself naked to avoid being apprehended, a moment that was recorded and circulated widely online.

“Despite the conductor’s actions, the police officer seen in the footage has been identified and placed under investigation to determine whether his conduct was appropriate,” she said

According to her, the conductor has also been contacted and is expected to appear before the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, on Monday for an interview.

The image maker said that the bus involved had been impounded, pending further inquiries.

Adebisi said the commissioner urged residents to obey the law and report rights violations, warning that unnecessary dramatisation is unacceptable and resisting arrest is a crime.

“Jimoh appealed to residents to remain law-abiding and to report any abuse of their rights by security personnel.

“He warned that unnecessary dramatisation against the police officer seen in the video is not acceptable under the law, adding that resisting lawful arrest is a criminal offence,” she said.

The spokesperson assured the public that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and that the findings would be made public.

She reiterated the command’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to lawful conduct by police personnel. (NAN)