…force reaffirms commitment to discipline

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed the dismissal of former Inspector Edith Uduma for gross misconduct and complicity in the alleged rape of a 17-year-old female suspect by Sergeant Abraham Uzuobo.

The Force described her actions as a breach of ethics, highlighting its commitment to upholding discipline and justice.

In a widely circulated video, the incident, which occurred on October 7, 2024, at a police station in Edo State, showed the victim being removed from a cell and taken to an unoccupied office by Sgt. Uzuobo, where he attempted to engage in sexual acts.

According to ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, investigations by the Edo State Police Command revealed that Edith Uduma, the Charge Room Officer on duty at the time, discovered the act but failed to report it. Instead, she filmed the incident and conspired with her husband, Ibrahim Mohammed, also a police officer, to extort ₦1,000,000 from the sergeant in exchange for concealing the matter.

After collecting ₦45,000 from the sergeant, the couple reportedly demanded the full amount days later. When the sergeant refused, they reported him to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and leaked the video online.

Sgt. Abraham Uzuobo was dismissed, prosecuted, and is currently in prison custody as his trial progresses.

Former Inspector Edith Uduma was dismissed for extortion, failure to follow protocol, and perverting justice.

Her husband, Ibrahim Mohammed, was demoted to the rank of Sergeant for his involvement.

Despite her dismissal, Uduma has reportedly made claims of innocence and attempted to discredit the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Force.

The Nigeria Police Force condemned Uduma’s actions, stating: “The dismissal of former Inspector Edith Uduma was necessary based on irrefutable evidence of her misconduct, extortion, and manipulation of justice for personal gain. The Force maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption, blackmail, and any behavior that perverts justice.”

The statement further emphasized that the Force remains committed to transparency, accountability, and protecting vulnerable individuals.

The Police urged the public to disregard unfounded claims by dismissed officers and to support legitimate justice initiatives, reaffirming its mission to uphold the law and maintain integrity.