Police usage in civil cases is archaic, according to activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam.
“Police should not be used as a tool to oppress and harass Nigerians,” Idam remarked in response to the detention of human rights attorney Dele Farotimi.
Farotimi was taken into custody by Nigerian police officers from Zone 2 Command in Lagos after Tony Elumelu, the Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group, filed a defamation petition.
A day prior to the event, Farotimi had expressed alarm over purported threats against his life made by powerful individuals in Nigerian politics.
“Those who feel wronged by a civil wrong should seek redress in court,” Idam responded.
Idam signed a statement that read, “It is odd to discover that the Nigeria Police is less busy even with the task of combating the myriad of security challenges wrestling with Nigeria’s defenseless citizens.”
The arrest of Mr. Dele Farotimi on suspicion of libel, a clear civil wrong, is actually evidence that the Nigerian police are indifferent to the country’s security issues.
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In numerous instances, the Supreme Court has issued a warning against the practice of utilizing the police to persecute innocent people over civil matters. The police have, regrettably, consistently disregarded all cautions against getting involved in civil cases.
“The Police Force should be redirected by the Inspector General of Police to combat crimes and protect lives and property, rather than getting involved in civil disputes or trying to use coercive powers to get involved in contractual disagreements.”
“Rather than going to the police station, a person who alleges defamation must seek redress in a court of law.
“It is not only archaic but also incompatible with civility to use the police to settle civil disputes.”
