Three Enugu Residents Take Legal Action Against Nigerian Police Over Alleged Illegal Detentions
ABUJA: Three Nigerian citizens have initiated a lawsuit against the Nigerian Police Force, accusing them of illegal detentions and violations of their fundamental human rights.
The suit, filed on January 27, 2025, at the Enugu State High Court, demands N100 million for ill-treatment and an additional N10 million in general damages.
The plaintiffs, Ofor Chika Raphael, Hon. Hypolite Okafor, and Ude Augustina, are members of the Voice Awgu Egeleli Forum and residents of Awgu, Enugu State.
They are seeking the release of their associates, Mr. Christopher Api and his wife, who were arrested on January 22. Augustina was detained while attempting to deliver food to them in police custody.
The suit raises concerns about the actions of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) at Awgu Police Station, who is accused of making indiscriminate arrests and extorting money from community members for bail.
Okafor was also detained when he visited the station to demand the release of his associates.
The plaintiffs argue that these actions breach their rights, as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
They also express urgent concerns about their health and safety after more than a week in detention.
If you believe in the importance of human rights and justice, follow this case closely and share to raise awareness.
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