The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condemned the alleged ethnically charged conduct of police officers captured in a viral video, describing their actions as unacceptable and contrary to the values of national unity and respect for all Nigerians.
In a statement signed by its Director of Communication and Media, Bala Musa, the agency expressed concern over the footage showing officers at a checkpoint allegedly demanding gratification from a motorist after searching his vehicle.
The agency said it was particularly disturbed by the reported remark by one of the officers, who allegedly threatened that he would have slapped the motorist “if he were an Igbo,” describing the statement as discriminatory and divisive.
According to the NOA, such conduct runs contrary to the principles of the Nigerian Identity Project and the National Values Charter, which promote unity, equity, patriotism and respect for the dignity of every citizen regardless of ethnic origin, religion or political affiliation.
It stressed that no Nigerian should be subjected to intimidation, discrimination or humiliation on the basis of ethnicity.
The agency, however, commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for its swift response in ordering the arrest of the officers involved and commencing disciplinary proceedings against them.
It said the prompt action demonstrated the commitment of the police leadership to professionalism, accountability and ethical policing, expressing confidence that any officers found culpable would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law and established disciplinary procedures.
NOA also urged the police to sustain ongoing institutional reforms by identifying and removing personnel whose conduct undermines public confidence in the force.
It noted that while a few officers engage in misconduct, the Nigeria Police Force remains home to thousands of disciplined and professional personnel who have distinguished themselves both within Nigeria and in international peacekeeping and security operations.
Reaffirming its mandate to promote national values, civic responsibility and social cohesion, the agency called on Nigerians to reject ethnic profiling and other divisive narratives capable of threatening the country’s unity.
The NOA urged citizens across ethnic, religious and political divides to remain committed to peaceful coexistence, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths and that every citizen has a responsibility to uphold national unity.
“We are one people, bound by a common destiny. We are all Nigerians, and we should remain proud of our shared identity,” the agency stated.
