Lawyer Sues IGP, X-Squad Officers For N500m Over Rights Violation And Abuse Of Power; Demands Declaration Of Police Officers As Unfit For Office

In the suit, Chigbu, who serves as Company Secretary to Black Sea Investments Ltd, is seeking N500 million in damages against the respondents for what he describes as unlawful arrest, detention, and violation of his fundamental human rights between December 16-18, 2024.

The lawyer named Mr. Attah Johnson, Zinary Investment Business Limited, Chief Nnamdi Ihoema, Sales People Nigeria Limited, CP Jude Azuka, DCP Ogedegbe, SP Habib Alkali, and DSP Elvis Ibe as respondents in the suit.

According to court documents, the dispute originated from a lapsed property conversion and investment agreement between Black Sea Investments Ltd and Zinary Investment Business Limited regarding Plot 1828, Cadastral Zone B13 Gaduwa District, Abuja. The agreement, which was signed in April 2023, had reportedly expired in April 2024.

Chigbu alleges that he was arrested and detained for two days after writing demand letters on behalf of his client, Black Sea Investments Ltd, whose Managing Director is former footballer, Ambassador John Fashanu. The lawyer claims he was denied access to his phone, medication, and legal representation during his detention.

The applicant further alleges that the police officers, acting on the instigation of Johnson and other respondents, fabricated criminal charges of conspiracy, obtaining by false pretense (OBT), and threat to life against him over what he maintains is purely a civil matter.

Among other reliefs, Chigbu is asking the court to declare the police officers involved unfit for office and seeking their removal from service. He also requests a written apology from the respondents and a perpetual injunction restraining them from further harassment over the property dispute.

The case, which highlights the ongoing concern about police involvement in civil matters, awaits hearing at the Federal High Court, Abuja.