Akwa Ibom police react to viral video of pregnant woman’s arrest

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has addressed a viral video showing officers manhandling a pregnant female motorist, clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident.

In a statement released on Saturday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the command confirmed that the event took place on February 1, 2025, at Idoro Road by Atiku Abubakar Way in Uyo.

The viral video, originally shared on Facebook by a user named Mayor Sylvester, captured officers forcefully dragging the woman until she collapsed. Sylvester condemned the act, describing the officers’ behavior as “inhumane” and calling for reforms in the enforcement of third-party insurance laws. He suggested that insurance representatives be stationed at checkpoints to assist motorists rather than resorting to forceful measures.

Responding to the backlash, DSP John explained that the woman was stopped for driving with expired vehicle particulars and lacking valid third-party insurance. As part of standard procedure, a constabulary officer was assigned to escort her vehicle to the police station.

However, instead of complying, the woman allegedly diverted to a park in Itam and later to another location, where she raised a false alarm, endangering the officer.

“The constabulary officer was rescued by police personnel in the vicinity, preventing what could have escalated into a mob attack,” John stated.

The Akwa Ibom Police Command, under CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reiterated that while it does not condone unprofessional conduct, the incident had been “amicably resolved” with the woman and her family.

“We urge the public to refrain from spreading misinformation that could incite unrest. The command remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety,” the statement concluded.