Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered the immediate removal of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Enu-Owa Division, Ondo West Local Government Area, for what the command described as “gross unprofessional conduct” in handling a case involving social media personality Adefolarin Ayomiposi, popularly known as Mandykiss.
The disciplinary action follows the circulation of a viral video showing Mandykiss recording and photographing two women — identified as Mrs. Sabitu Akinwole and her daughter Oyindamola — while they were in police custody.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Alayande Olushola, the command found that the DPO failed to maintain professional oversight after the influencer stormed Ondo town to apprehend the mother and daughter, accusing them of making derogatory comments about her on social media.
The police investigation revealed that no officer accompanied Mandykiss during the so-called “arrest.” Instead, she was assisted by some of her online followers, who tracked down the suspects before she turned them over to the police. However, she later filmed and photographed the suspects at the police station, posting the content online — a move the police described as “illegal and deeply unethical.”
“This action clearly violates the principle of presumption of innocence and breaches internal procedures guiding the management of suspects in police custody,” DSP Alayande stated.
He explained that the Commissioner of Police, upon reviewing the footage and internal reports, found the DPO culpable of dereliction of duty and poor supervision.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed the immediate redeployment of the affected DPO from the Enu-Owa Division. The command will not tolerate any act capable of eroding public trust or compromising the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement read.
CP Lawal further warned that any officer who permits the recording or photographing of suspects without authorization will face strict disciplinary measures. He reminded all police personnel that suspects’ rights must be respected at every stage of investigation.
“The Nigeria Police Force exists to uphold justice and fairness. We cannot afford to turn law enforcement processes into tools for public ridicule or social media drama,” the Commissioner added.
Meanwhile, the controversial video has sparked outrage among civil rights advocates and members of the public, who condemned the act as an abuse of power and a violation of privacy. The police said internal disciplinary measures are underway to ensure accountability within the command.
