Extortion: Rivers Police sack Inspector, recommend two ASPs to IGP for dismissal

By Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the dismissal of Inspector Michael Odey following the conclusion of his orderly room trial.

Odey was one of three Policemen charged with extorting $3,000 from a young man in the state about a month ago.

In a press statement on Tuesday, the Spokesperson for Rivers Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the other two Assistant Superintendent Police (ASPs) who were accused alongside Odey had also been recommended for dismissal but because of their rank, the recommendations had been forwarded to the Inspector General of Police’s office.

The three police officers were arrested and paraded last month on allegations of extortion after a human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu from Delta blew the whistle about their alleged corrupt acts of the Police officers in his X handle.

See the press statement issued below:

RIVERS STATE POLICE COMMAND ADDRESSES EXTORTION CASE INVOLVING THREE POLICE OFFICERS.

The Rivers State Police Command is issuing an update regarding an ongoing investigation into an extortion incident involving three Police Officers. As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability, we are providing the following information:

After a thorough investigation, two Officers have been officially queried and recommended for dismissal as per established procedures. This recommendation has been swiftly forwarded to the Force Secretary (FORSEC) for necessary action.

Inspector Michael Odey’s case has progressed with the conclusion of Orderly Room Proceedings. The findings have been reviewed by AIG Alifa Omata, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16, Yenagoa, who has upheld the recommendation of dismissal from the Force, and has been relieved of his duty, Effective 7th February 2024.
It is important to note that all three Officers remain in custody as investigations continue into two additional cases of similar nature. Updates on these investigations will be provided in due course.

The disciplinary process for Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) Doubara Edonyabo and Talent Mungo involves review by the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission, ensuring a fair and just resolution.

The Rivers State Police Command encourages residents to promptly report any misconduct by law enforcement agents. Be rest assured, all reports will be handled with the utmost seriousness, and appropriate actions will be taken to uphold fairness and justice.

For further information or to report incidents, please contact the Rivers State Police Command Public Relations Officer.