Awka Businessman Sues Police Chief for Unlawful Arrest, Demands N20m Compensation

By Tony Okafor, Awka

In a significant legal development, Tochukwu Nwokoye Nwosu, a prominent businessman based in Awka, has filed a lawsuit against CSP Ifeanyi Iburu, a senior police officer, for unlawful arrest and detention.

The case, filed at the High Court of Anambra State holden at Awka, seeks compensation of N20 million for the violation of Nwosu’s fundamental rights to personal liberty.

According to the court documents, Nwosu was arrested on September 4, 2024, at Kamali Phase III, behind Dubai Estate, Awka, by 10 am without any justifiable reason.

He was subsequently detained inside the cell of the Police Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, from 10 am to 10 pm, further infringing on his rights.

The applicant’s counsel of Joe O Eze and Associates, submitted that the arrest and detention were a clear breach of Nwosu’s fundamental rights, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

The respondent, CSP Ifeanyi Iburu, is accused of abusing his power and violating the applicant’s rights without any lawful justification.

The court has been asked to declare the arrest and detention unlawful and award N20 million in compensation to Nwosu for the damages suffered.

This case highlights concerns about police brutality and the need for law enforcement agencies to respect citizens’ fundamental rights.

The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the protection of citizens’ rights and the accountability of law enforcement agencies in Anambra State.