By Frank Ulom
The Cross River State Police Command has denied allegations that its officers were targeting a content creator popularly known as “MC Okrika” over a video he posted alleging police misconduct and harassment.
In a press release issued on Friday, the Command described the allegation as misleading, insisting that officers were not acting in response to the viral video criticising the police.
According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, investigators attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Calabar, were instead acting on a separate petition previously filed against the content creator by Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, Member Representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.
The petition reportedly concerns allegations of cyberstalking, malicious cyber harassment, character assassination, and incitement of public order through the alleged dissemination of false information.
The police explained that investigations into the petition had already commenced before the circulation of the video alleging police misconduct.
“The Command wishes to state clearly that the claim is misleading and does not reflect the true circumstances surrounding the matter,” the statement said.
The Command further clarified that officers handling the case merely made efforts to contact the content creator as part of routine investigative procedures and denied reports that any search was conducted at his apartment or residence.
It also maintained that no action was taken against the content creator because of his comments or publications concerning the police.
The statement recalled that following the earlier video alleging misconduct by police personnel, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Rashid Afegbua, had already directed that the allegations be investigated in line with the Command’s commitment to accountability and professionalism.
As part of ongoing investigations, the police said the Commissioner had invited the content creator and his legal counsel for an interview scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the State Command Headquarters in Calabar.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to respecting citizens’ fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, while ensuring that complaints and petitions are handled in accordance with the law.
