Yes, the MCE was out of order. He has no business issuing threat of transfer to the police officer.
It’s not his role, neither is it his job. Indeed, the job of transferring police officers from one duty post to the other is the responsibility of the Inspector General of Police – That responsibility is way above the pay grade of the MCE.
Point is, no matter the provocation, public officers are expected to exercise the highest standards of service, decorum and discretion.
And honestly, the suspension of the MCE from office serves him right.
Having said that, can we also interrogate the unethical behaviour of the police officer and his hostility towards the MCE?
For instance, was it appropriate, lawful and ethical for the Police officer to detain the Mayor of the city he serves in the manner he did?
I mean, does an arresting officer have the right to exchange words with offender of the law?
Again, was the MCE informed that he was under arrest for the offence and the Law read to him? Was his right not to speak and say things that might incriminate him read to him?
What was the motive behind the recording of the incident in the full glare of the public?
If a suspect under arrest has the right to keep quiet, why should the arresting officer in this particular instance intentionally induced the suspect to misconduct himself for a secret recording?
Seriously, the intent of the arresting officer here ought to be investigated and appropriate sanctions dished out.
If indeed the idea is to build a civilized and progressive society, then we must not tolerate indiscipline in any shape or form from any quarters.
Great weekend, guys 👍 🤛 😎