Three Nigerian citizens have filed a fundamental human rights enforcement suit against the Nigerian Police Force, alleging illegal detentions and violations of their rights.

The suit, lodged at the Enugu State High Court on 27 January 2025, seeks 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 in Enugu State.

They have requested the court to order the release of their associates, Mr. Christopher Api and his wife, who were arrested on 22 January. Augustina was subsequently detained while attempting to deliver food to them in police custody.

The suit highlights concerns regarding the actions of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Awgu Police Station, who is accused of conducting indiscriminate arrests and extorting community members for bail.

Okafor was also detained when he visited the police station to advocate for the release of his associates.

The applicants claim that ongoing threats of further detentions are linked to previous petitions filed against the DPO.

They argue that these actions constitute a breach of their fundamental rights as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples? Rights.

The plaintiffs stress the urgency of their situation, citing concerns for their health and safety after more than a week in detention. (Vanguard)

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