Lagos Police Inspector Under Investigation After Viral Video Shows Assault on Uber Driver

 

A disturbing video that has recently gone viral on social media shows a police inspector violently assaulting an Uber driver in Lagos, sparking widespread public outrage. The footage captures a troubling scene where the officer, identified as Inspector Obic Modestus, repeatedly strikes the driver inside the vehicle, prompting a strong reaction from Lagos State Police Command. This incident has raised serious concerns about police conduct and the treatment of citizens in Nigeria.

The Viral Video: What Happened?

The shocking video footage shows the police inspector seated in the passenger seat of an Uber vehicle, aggressively leaning over and physically assaulting the driver. The officer can be seen slapping the driver multiple times while demanding, “Are you mad?”—a phrase he repeats several times during the attack. The intensity of the assault is disturbing, as the officer’s actions appear unprovoked and unnecessary.

Following the assault inside the vehicle, the officer forcibly drags the Uber driver out of the car. The driver is then taken toward a nearby police van where additional officers join in, reportedly continuing to harass and intimidate the driver. The entire episode, captured on video by bystanders, has since ignited a firestorm of condemnation online and offline.

Public Reaction and Outcry

As the video spread across social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, many Nigerians expressed shock and anger. For many viewers, the clip is emblematic of the ongoing issues of police brutality and abuse of power that have plagued Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies for years.

Social media users lamented the seeming lack of respect for human rights and due process by some police officers. The video has fueled calls for police reform, transparency, and accountability. Many citizens demanded swift justice for the Uber driver and punishment for the officer responsible.

Official Response from Lagos State Police Command

In response to the public outcry, the Lagos State Police Command swiftly addressed the situation. Benjamin Hundeyin, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the Lagos State Police Command, publicly confirmed that the officer seen in the video has been identified and summoned for questioning.

Hundeyin stated:
“The Police Officer, Inspector Obic Modestus, has been summoned by the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) @LagosPoliceNG. He will be handed over to the Provost Department for appropriate disciplinary measures.”

He further emphasized the commitment of the Lagos State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh, to uphold professional conduct and respect for citizens, stating:
“The Lagos State Police Command will not condone any form of incivility to members of the public.”

This official declaration underscores the seriousness with which the police command is treating the incident and its promise to take appropriate action against the erring officer.

Understanding the Context: Police Brutality in Nigeria

This incident is unfortunately not isolated. Over the years, Nigeria has witnessed numerous cases where police officers have been accused of using excessive force, harassment, and even unlawful killings. The #EndSARS movement, which gained global attention in 2020, highlighted systemic issues within the police force, including corruption, brutality, and abuse of power.

Incidents like the assault on the Uber driver deepen public mistrust in law enforcement and underscore the urgent need for reforms aimed at professionalizing the police force. Nigerians continue to demand more transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights from their police officers.

The Role of Social Media in Police Accountability

The rapid spread of videos like this one on social media has played a crucial role in holding law enforcement officers accountable. Citizens equipped with smartphones have become frontline witnesses to injustices, ensuring that abuses are documented and brought to public attention.

In this case, the viral video pressured the Lagos State Police Command to act swiftly, showing how public scrutiny can lead to immediate responses from authorities. However, while identification and summoning of the officer is a positive step, Nigerians will be closely watching to see whether real disciplinary action follows.

What’s Next for Inspector Obic Modestus?

Inspector Obic Modestus is now under formal investigation by the Complaint Response Unit of the Lagos Police. After his interrogation, he is expected to be handed over to the Provost Department, which is responsible for maintaining discipline within the police force.

Depending on the outcome of the investigation, Inspector Modestus could face various disciplinary actions ranging from suspension to dismissal or even criminal charges if his conduct is found to be grossly unlawful.

The incident will serve as a test of the Lagos State Police Command’s commitment to enforcing discipline and addressing police misconduct decisively. It is hoped that this will send a clear message to other officers that abuse of power will not be tolerated.

The Impact on Ride-Hailing Services and Drivers

This assault on an Uber driver raises broader questions about the safety and rights of ride-hailing service providers in Nigeria. Drivers for platforms like Uber and Bolt often face harassment from law enforcement officers, including demands for bribes, intimidation, and sometimes physical violence.

The Uber driver community is likely to feel heightened anxiety following this incident, highlighting the need for better protection mechanisms and clear guidelines to ensure their safety while on duty. Ride-hailing companies themselves must also step up efforts to support their drivers and advocate for their rights.

The Importance of Police-Community Relations

Building trust between the police and the communities they serve is essential for effective law enforcement and public safety. Incidents of brutality and harassment erode this trust, making it harder for police to perform their duties and for citizens to feel secure.

Community policing initiatives, regular training on human rights and professional ethics for officers, and clear accountability frameworks are crucial steps toward repairing this fractured relationship. The Lagos State Police Command’s current handling of this case will be an important indicator of progress in this area.

How You Can Help: Raising Awareness and Advocating for Change

If this incident concerns you, there are several ways you can contribute to positive change:

1. Share the Story Responsibly: Spread awareness about police misconduct by sharing verified reports and videos while respecting the privacy of victims.

2. Support Human Rights Organizations: Groups working to promote police reform and human rights in Nigeria need public support.

3. Engage with Authorities: Participate in community forums and engage with local police officials to demand transparency and reforms.

4. Promote Safe Use of Technology: Encourage fellow Nigerians to document abuses safely and responsibly.

5. Advocate for Policy Change: Support campaigns and petitions aimed at reforming police practices and ensuring better oversight.

Conclusion

The recent viral video exposing the assault of an Uber driver by Inspector Obic Modestus has once again spotlighted critical issues surrounding police conduct in Nigeria. The swift response by the Lagos State Police Command demonstrates a willingness to address such misconduct, but the road ahead requires ongoing vigilance and systemic reforms.

As Nigerians demand justice and transparency, it is vital that incidents like these serve as catalysts for lasting change—where every citizen’s rights are respected, and police officers uphold the law with integrity and professionalism.

NaijaRush will continue to monitor developments in this case and provide updates as the story unfolds.