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| CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, mnips |
By Oluchi Omai
Viral Video Raises Concerns Over Death of Mrs. Ijeoma Wilson Obot...
A viral video released by Mr. Promise Obot, son of the late Mrs. Ijeoma Wilson Obot, has drawn significant public attention and concern across Cross River State. The video, which quickly gained traction on social media, questioned the circumstances surrounding Mrs. Obot’s death in an incident involving a police officer. The Cross River State Police Command has since responded, clarifying their approach to the matter and updating the public on steps already taken to ensure justice and transparency.
Mrs. Obot’s passing has deeply affected family members and the wider community. As the video circulated, many viewers expressed shock and demanded answers on how the incident unfolded, as well as the actions being taken by authorities to address accountability within the police force.
Police Name Officer Involved and Confirm Legal Actions
The Cross River State Police Command has officially addressed the situation, confirming that the officer identified in the incident is Inspector Efiong Bassey, formerly attached to the Atakpa Division. According to police statements, Inspector Bassey has been dismissed from service. The Command emphasized that disciplinary and legal procedures were promptly initiated following the incident.
It was further confirmed that Inspector Bassey has been charged in connection with Mrs. Obot’s death and is now in prison custody, awaiting legal proceedings. The Command highlighted that swift action was taken to ensure that the officer faced appropriate charges in court, with the matter now entirely under the purview of the justice system.
Police representatives reassured the public that no one within the force is above the law. They noted that holding the former officer accountable demonstrates the commitment of the Command to upholding professional standards and maintaining public trust in law enforcement operations.
Timing of Video Release Addressed by Authorities
Police officials responded to the viral video’s release, indicating their belief that the video was published before a planned meeting between police leadership and the children of the late Mrs. Obot. The Command clarified that active steps had already been taken to engage and support the family before the video circulated online.
According to the Police Command, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Afegbua, had arranged to meet with the children and loved ones of Mrs. Obot as part of the Command’s broader community engagement strategy. Despite the viral content raising concerns, authorities stressed that their internal processes for addressing the family’s needs and concerns had begun as soon as information on the incident reached senior leadership.
Police representatives pointed out that misunderstandings often occur during periods of emotional distress, and they encouraged patience and direct communication with the Command whenever clarification is needed. They expressed understanding for the family’s grief and the urgency of their demand for information and justice.
Commissioner of Police Meets with Family and Lawmaker
Shortly after the video’s circulation, CP Bello Afegbua, the Commissioner of Police for Cross River State, met in person with the children of Mrs. Obot. Also present at the meeting was Honorable Effiong Ekarika, who represents the area in the Cross River State House of Assembly. This meeting was part of ongoing efforts to provide support and transparency following the tragic loss.
During the visit, CP Afegbua, who previously served as the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Atakpa – the area linked to the incident – took time to comfort the deceased’s children, offering personal reassurance in their time of distress. The Commissioner underscored his personal sense of responsibility, given his former position as DPO, and aimed to demonstrate empathy and support for the family.
Family members shared their feelings of relief and appreciation upon seeing CP Afegbua. Many recognized him from his earlier service in Atakpa Division and expressed that his direct involvement gave them a degree of reassurance about the seriousness with which the matter was being handled.
Honorable Effiong Ekarika, as a member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, observed the proceedings and expressed solidarity with the family, acknowledging their concerns and encouraging them to maintain communication with the authorities for updates as the legal process continues.
Assurance from CP Afegbua to the Obot Family
In his conversation with Mrs. Obot’s children, Commissioner Bello Afegbua pledged that the police and other relevant institutions would continue to stay in touch with the family as events unfold. He stated that the responsible agencies, now that court proceedings are underway, would likely reach out to the family to either give updates or provide additional support in the near future.
The Commissioner offered words of sympathy, stating that the Command deeply regrets the passing of Mrs. Obot and understands the pain experienced by her loved ones. He reassured the family that they would not be left without information, emphasizing the importance of openness and regular communication throughout the investigative and judicial processes.
CP Afegbua also advised the family that as the courts progress with the case, both police officials and other officials involved in prosecution and victim support would keep the family informed about major developments. He noted that such engagement is a core part of the Command’s approach to handling serious incidents involving police personnel.
Police Command Reiterates Commitment to Justice and Accountability
Speaking on behalf of the Command as a whole, CP Afegbua expressed regret over the loss of Mrs. Obot and extended the police’s deepest prayers and condolences to her family. He emphasized his sorrow and the collective sympathy of officers across the Command. The Commissioner described the incident as a tragedy that has affected not only the immediate family but also the wider community and the police force itself.
He further assured the public that the Command would remain focused on allowing the law to take its full course, reaffirming the principle that police officers, regardless of rank or service history, must be held accountable for any actions that result in harm or loss of life.
CP Afegbua encouraged all residents of Cross River State to maintain faith in the justice system and to continue cooperating with police investigators and community liaison officers. He stressed that the Command remains committed to transparency and will provide factual, timely updates as allowed by the judicial process.
Role of Public Officials and Community Leaders
Honorable Effiong Ekarika’s involvement highlighted the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and elected representatives in times of crisis. By attending the meeting and voicing support for the family, the lawmaker helped reinforce community confidence in the process and provided another channel for accountability and advocacy.
The engagement of both government and Command officials also served as a reminder that support for affected families should be collective, involving the police, community leaders, and the legislative arm. This team approach can help families navigate the aftermath of tragedies and ensure that their voices are heard at every stage of official investigations and prosecutions.
Police Encouragement for Ongoing Communication
The Command encouraged all parties affected by such incidents to maintain open lines of communication as investigations and judicial processes continue. Police officials welcome the direct sharing of concerns, suggestions, and evidence from citizens, family members, and lawmakers.
They assured the public that efforts have been made to prevent similar incidents in the future, and that all officers are reminded of their responsibility to serve with integrity and respect for all community members.
Compassion and Transparency in Times of Loss
In his closing remarks, Commissioner Afegbua offered words of comfort, urging the children and all those mourning Mrs. Obot's passing to remain strong. He stated that prayers have been made for the family and all steps are being taken within the law to ensure justice is served.
CP Afegbua expressed renewed commitment to openness, promising that vital updates surrounding the case would be shared with the family as soon as they become available. Transparency, compassion, and regular engagement, he emphasized, are central to the Command's current approach to crisis response and community relations.
Community Impact and Looking Forward
The incident has deeply touched the local community, sparking dialogue on the importance of both police accountability and compassionate support for families during crises. The case of Mrs. Obot stands as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in rebuilding public trust following incidents of misconduct.
Ongoing communication from the Command, and the willingness of senior leadership to personally step in and offer support, signal positive changes in how grievances are addressed. Community members and local activists have urged the Command to keep these new standards, pushing for continuous improvements in transparency, responsiveness, and community engagement.
BHG-InfoDesk will continue to monitor developments in this case and provide updates as more information becomes available, ensuring that all readers remain informed and all voices are heard in the pursuit of justice, healing, and lasting change.
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