By Elijah Ugani
A police officer has allegedly assaulted a driver at the Ikom Border Post in Cross River State, leaving the driver with two broken ribs and requiring hospital treatment.
The incident, reportedly which occurred on August 28, 2026, sparked outrage among youths and drivers in the area, who allegedly dismantled the checkpoint in protest.
The protesters accused officers stationed at the checkpoint of repeatedly harassing drivers and causing problems for other road users. They called for the abolition of the checkpoint, arguing that several other checkpoints are already mounted along the same road.
However, the Cross River State Police Command has acknowledged the reported incident, describing it as an allegation of assault and unprofessional conduct by a police officer at the Ikom Border Post.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the Command said the officer involved had been recalled to his base and was currently facing disciplinary proceedings in line with established police procedures.
The police said unprofessional conduct and abuse of members of the public would not be tolerated, assuring residents that appropriate action would be taken based on the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.
“The Command remains committed to professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights,” the statement said.
The development comes amid renewed calls from drivers and youths for greater accountability among security personnel manning checkpoints in the area.
The police disciplinary process is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and establish whether the officer breached established