The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, disclosed this during a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, September 2.
Adepoju said the officers were dismissed after an orderly room trial conducted in connection with the incident, adding that they would subsequently be charged to court to face appropriate criminal charges.
The police boss said the incident occurred on August 27 when a patrol team led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Fabian Kpeanabari attempted to stop Obodo, who was driving a tinted Lexus vehicle.
According to him, the victim allegedly failed to stop, prompting the patrol team to pursue the vehicle.
During the pursuit, Corporal Alfred Louis, who was attached to the patrol team, reportedly opened fire at the vehicle, hitting Obodo.
The 22-year-old sustained a gunshot injury and was rushed to Palmer’s Hospital in Port Harcourt, where he was attended to before being confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
Adepoju said the three members of the patrol team were immediately arrested and detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Port Harcourt, where a comprehensive investigation was conducted.
Obodo, who was awaiting his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) call-up letter, was reportedly shot along the popular Ada George Road in Port Harcourt.
The incident triggered protests in parts of the state, with youths from Ndele Community in Emohua Local Government Area and other areas taking to the streets in demonstration.
Adepoju stressed that the Rivers State Police Command would not shield personnel found to have acted outside the law.
He said the dismissal and planned prosecution of the officers demonstrated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights.
“No police officer is above the law,” Adepoju said.
He added that the Command would continue to take decisive action against officers who abuse the powers entrusted to them or violate professional standards.
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