Delta CP calls for investigation as air force personnel allegedly attacks officers

From Joe Obukata Ogbodu, Warri

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has called on authorities to investigate the inter-agency conflict, where some personnel of the Nigerian Airforce attached to the Airforce base in Jeddo, Okpe Local Government Area, allegedly attacked police officers performing their lawful duty.

In footage which went viral on Wednesday, police officers and Air Force personnel were seen engaging in a public brawl, a development which raised concerns about the breakdown of inter-agency cooperation and the potential consequences for public safety.

SP Edafe Bright, Police Public Relations Officer of the Police Command, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, said that the incident occurred on February 11, 2025, at approximately 5:00 pm.

According to him, operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) had flagged down a Toyota Corolla car with registration number AKD-73-FL, but the occupants fled, prompting the policemen to give chase.

Edafe said that the police arrested one of the suspects, identified as Ibohama Precious, 25, and recovered substances suspected to be Indian hemp and Canadian loud.

However, when the policemen attempted to pass through the Airforce checkpoint at Jeddo with the suspect and exhibits, they were stopped by Airforce personnel.

Despite identifying themselves as police officers, the Airforce personnel allegedly attacked them without provocation, he said.

The Delta State Police Command described the incident as “embarrassing” and assured that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, and Airforce authorities are investigating the matter.

He said that the police command has vowed to take necessary steps to prevent future occurrences.

“We have a cordial working relationship with the Airforce and other security agencies in the state.”

“This incident is an isolated one, and we are working to ensure it does not happen again,” Edafe said.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.