Lawyer files N50m suit against IG, DPO, others over rights abuse in Delta

A Warri-based lawyer and the Publicity Secretary of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Udu Branch, E.E. Igbighogho Esq has filed an N50m suit jointly and severally against the Divisional Police Officer, Ovwian Division, CSP Aliyu Shabba and five others for abuse of his fundamental rights while on lawful duty at the station.

The plaintiff, in suit No: EHC/FHR/39/2022 at the Delta State High Court, Effurun is seeking a declaration that the forceful seizure and detention of his android phone on the 5th of August by the 6th Respondent upon order of 5th Respondent till date is illegal and unconstitutional.

Igbighogho further prayed the court for an order that the refusal of the 5th Respondent to release the Applicant’s android phone upon demand and the abusive treatment meted for him is illegal and unconstitutional.

The suit had the Chairman Police Service Commission, Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CSP Aliyu Shabba, ASP Imrana Yusuf and Inspector Lawrence as 1st to 6th Respondents.

It was learnt that the lawyer had gone to the station to solicit for a client when the 5th and 6th Respondents maltreated him and seized his phone, bragging that he can go to hell and nothing will happen.

However, the Human Rights Lawyer is praying the court for the sum of N50M only as damages against the Respondents jointly and severally for breach of the Applicant’s Fundamental Rights and inhumane treatment.

Meantime, the police have been given 48 hours to show cause and file a reply. The suit had been fixed for Friday 12th August 2022 for a hearing.

When contacted, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe said he cannot comment as the document sent was not clear enough to read.