The Edo State Public Response Safety Team has dismissed an officer caught on video grappling with a commercial bus driver over the steering wheel in Benin City.
The incident, which stirred widespread outrage, prompted swift action from the agency to address public concerns.
Watch the video below;
https://x.com/Chrisvlognation/status/1877444249173590064?t=jrbH4TCPfP_1zh8ecwDqDg&s=19
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 9, 2025, the team’s Coordinator, Kelly Okungbowa, apologized to the public and condemned the officer’s behavior.
“First, I want to sincerely apologize to the general public for the unacceptable conduct of our officer in the viral video,” Okungbowa stated. “No society is perfect, but we must hold ourselves accountable. The officer has been dismissed to serve as a deterrent to others.”
He emphasized that the taskforce’s mission is to maintain order, particularly in Benin City, not to antagonize drivers. “We are not enemies of drivers; our role is to ensure compliance with traffic regulations. Drivers know designated areas for picking and dropping passengers, and our work is to enforce these rules for everyone’s safety.”
Addressing frequent conflicts between officers and drivers, Okungbowa urged the public to report misconduct. “I appeal to the public: if you encounter any erring officer, report them to the commission. We are committed to dealing decisively with anyone found violating their duties. I can’t be everywhere, but accountability remains our priority.”
Okungbowa also acknowledged the driver’s wrongdoing, noting that he had taken the officer to an undisclosed location. “The officer’s reaction was wrong and regrettable, but it’s important to recognize that the driver’s actions escalated the situation. Both behaviors are unacceptable.”
