The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised an urgent call for the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate allegations of unlawful demolitions carried out by suspected armed hoodlums allegedly accompanied by police officers. HURIWA frowned that these demolitions reportedly took place under alleged orders from the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, without the knowledge of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police.

Drawing major points from a detailed petition received and acknowledged by the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Lagos, which was made available to us, HURIWA, in a press statement, highlighted a series of disturbing incidents involving Harmony Gardens and Estates Development Ltd. “The petition claimed that on July 22, 2024, Modupe Oni Orisan, alongside police officers from Zone 2 and a group of hoodlums, allegedly launched an attack on the property of Harmony Gardens, causing extensive estimated to exceed one billion Naira

“The petition described how irate youths from Oko Orisan apprehended the alleged invader known as Modupe Oni Orisan and the hoodlums, handing them over to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police’s crack team. It noted that the Zone 2 police officers overseeing the forceful takeover fled the scene when the CP’s team arrived. The estate owner, Hon. Dr. Saheed Mosadoluwa, intervened to prevent the youths from taking the law into their own hands, urging them to allow the police to handle the situation.

“The financial implications of these events have been significant. The invaders’ alleged activities have reportedly led to substantial losses for Harmony Gardens, including the alleged theft of payloaders worth 180 million Naira. The damages inflicted during the alleged attack on July 22 add to the escalating losses, which now include extensive property destruction valued at over one billion Naira,” HURIWA referenced the petition.

Hence, HURIWA demanded that the IGP take immediate steps to investigate and deal appropriately with the officers implicated in these unlawful acts based on the petition reportedly submitted to the DPP in Lagos. The report of the police investigation should also be submitted to the DPP just as everyone accused would then have fair hearing based on available facts. The association insisted that the IGP direct the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, identifying the officers involved and ensuring that justice is served by submitting the report to the DPP.

HURIWA also applauded the IGP’s stance that the police should not involve themselves in civil matters such as land disputes unless there is a clear threat to law and order. This position, the association argued, aligns with global best practices and is crucial for maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

Furthermore, HURIWA stressed the importance of enhancing inter-agency cooperation to ensure a unified approach to law enforcement and the prevention of criminal activities. The association underscored the necessity for the NPF to strengthen its cooperative relationship with other agencies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to prevent the creation of unnecessary tension between these bodies.

HURIWA emphasized that its call for an investigation reflects the broader public demand for justice and accountability within the NPF, noting that by addressing these allegations promptly and transparently, the IGP can reinforce public trust in the police force and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law.

“The petition brings to light the broader issue of police conduct in Nigeria. It is claimed that the actions of certain police officers have not only led to significant financial losses but have also undermined public trust in the NPF. The petitioners argue that without a thorough and transparent investigation, these incidents will continue to erode the credibility of the police force.

“Therefore, this call for an investigation reflects the broader public demand for justice and accountability within the NPF. By addressing these allegations promptly and transparently, the IGP can reinforce public trust in the police force and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law,” HURIWA asserted.

The association also highlighted the importance of using proper channels to address grievances, rather than resorting to media blackmail or other forms of public pressure. By encouraging the public to follow lawful procedures, HURIWA aimed to promote a more just and orderly society.

In addition to the financial and social impact, HURIWA emphasized the human cost of these unlawful demolitions, highlighting that families and individuals who have invested their life savings into these properties are left devastated, facing not only financial ruin but also emotional trauma. The association called on the IGP to consider the broader implications of these actions and to take a compassionate approach to resolving these disputes.

“The alleged unlawful demolitions in Lagos have brought to the forefront critical issues regarding police conduct, property rights, and the rule of law. Our petition to the IGP underscores the urgent need for a thorough investigation and appropriate action to address these allegations. We remain committed to advocating for human rights and holding those in power accountable for their actions,” HURIWA concluded.

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