Mr. Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade an Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the Zone 2 Command of the Nigeria Police Force has responded to public concerns following the circulation of a viral video showing the arrest of Ms. Mercy Attababa.
In a media statement issued by Mrs. Ayuba T. Umma a Chief Superintendent of Police the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer explained that the incident, which attracted widespread attention online, is currently under review by police authorities. That the arrest followed a petition submitted by Mr. Emeka Okoye. In the petition, Okoye accused Ms. Attababa and others of assault and issuing threats to his life. He further alleged that a group of armed individuals, suspected to be cult members, stormed his residence on July 13 and 14, 2025, threatening him and his family and forcing them to flee their home for safety.
Ms. Attababa was taken into custody and later released to the Welfare Director of the Lagos State University Students' Union Government after giving her statement to the police.
Adegoke has directed that the case be transferred to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police for a thorough investigation. He also confirmed that the officers involved in the controversial arrest have been identified and will face appropriate disciplinary measures based on the outcome of the inquiry.
“The Command wishes to assure the public that justice will be transparently served, and appropriate steps will be taken to address any professional misconduct” Umma said.
The police have urged the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.