The family of Godwin Francis Akpan has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, over his continued detention despite being released by the Federal Capital Territory High Court. Akpan's family, through their lawyer, Edeh Uchenna, demanded his immediate release, citing violation of his fundamental rights. The detention arose from a police investigation into a dispute between Akpan's employer and another company, described as a commercial or civil dispute.
According to Daily Trust, Akpan was detained in connection with allegations of criminal conduct but had not been charged before a court by the police. The lawyer acknowledged the police have legitimate powers to investigate alleged offences but argued that such powers must operate within due process, individual liberty, and respect for judicial authority. The petition emphasized that a court order obtained by the family requires compliance by those concerned.
The petition described the court order as an expression of judicial authority that, until lawfully set aside, varied or stayed by a competent court, requires compliance by those concerned. The family, through their lawyer, called for immediate compliance with the FCT High Court's release order, while urging that any outstanding investigative issues be pursued through lawful and transparent procedures.
The family members, in the petition, stated that they are not seeking immunity from investigation. They added that it was not asking any institution to determine the merits of the underlying commercial dispute outside the appropriate forum. The petition also called for the constitutional and legal rights of Akpan and other affected persons to be respected.
The petition emphasized that the underlying commercial and investigative issues should be handled through appropriate legal and institutional channels. The family members urged the police to respect Akpan's rights and release him from detention. The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has been tasked with addressing the family's concerns.
The case highlights the challenges of balancing police investigative powers with individual rights and judicial authority. The family's petition has brought attention to the issue, emphasizing the need for the police to operate within the law. The police have been urged to take a lawful and transparent approach to resolving the matter.
The outcome of the petition and the fate of Godwin Francis Akpan remain uncertain. The family's demand for his release and the police's response will be crucial in determining the next steps in the case. The situation underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights in Nigeria.
Key points
- The family of Godwin Francis Akpan petitions IGP Tunji Disu over his continued detention despite court release order.
- Akpan's detention arose from a police investigation into a commercial dispute between his employer and another company.
- The family demands immediate release, citing violation of Akpan's fundamental rights and the need for police to operate within due process.
