Court Mandates Police to Pay N1 Million in Damages Over Unlawful Arrest of Cameroonian Senator
A High Court situated in Calabar, Cross River State, has issued a directive for the Nigeria Police to compensate a Cameroonian youth leader, Manghe Romeo Etta, with N1 million in damages. This ruling addresses what the court described as an unlawful arrest and detention of Etta, who serves as a youth senator representing Manyu Division in Cameroon.
Judgment Details and Legal Proceedings
In the case identified as suit No: HC/146F/2025, the presiding judge, Justice Theresa Agom, delivered the judgment, emphasizing that Etta was wrongfully apprehended by the police. The arrest stemmed from allegations concerning a stolen vehicle, which the court found to be unsupported by evidence. Justice Agom ruled that the respondents, representing the police, failed to provide justification for the arrest and subsequent detention, labeling their actions as unlawful and lacking evidential backing.
Furthermore, the court ordered the immediate release of Etta's vehicle, a BMW X1 with registration number MRA 905 AL and chassis number WBAVL1C57CVR78137. This vehicle had been seized during the disputed arrest, and the court's directive aims to restore Etta's property rights.
Legal Arguments and Evidence Presented
Armstrong Achu, the counsel representing the applicant, spoke to journalists after the ruling, highlighting that his client successfully established ownership of the vehicle through verifiable documents. Achu stated, "The applicant clearly proved ownership of the vehicle with credible documents linking him to it, while the respondents failed to present any evidence in support of their defence." This lack of evidence from the police was a key factor in the court's decision to rule in favor of Etta.
Although Etta had initially sought N200 million in damages for the ordeal, the court awarded N1 million, taking into account the specific circumstances of the case. Achu issued a warning that failure by the police to comply with the court's orders could lead to legal consequences, including potential criminal contempt proceedings.
Response from Police Counsel and Broader Implications
Counsel for the respondents, Nyakno Usoroh, indicated that he would communicate the outcome of the judgment to his clients, the Nigeria Police. This case underscores ongoing concerns about police conduct and adherence to legal standards in Nigeria, particularly regarding arrests and property seizures.
The ruling serves as a reminder of the judiciary's role in upholding justice and protecting individuals' rights against unlawful actions by law enforcement agencies. It also highlights the importance of proper evidence and due process in legal proceedings, reinforcing accountability within the security sector.
