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A lawsuit seeking N50 million in damages for human rights violations has been filed against the Inspector General of Police, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, and Stanbic IBTC Plc, among others. The plaintiffs, including Eugene Okwudili Okonkwo and family members, allege violations and seek exemplary and aggravated damages.

Chukwudi Emmanuel Okonkwo claimed he was intercepted by unknown men while driving to work on August 6, 2024.

They allegedly blocked his vehicle, dragged him into a car, and took him to Stanbic IBTC Plc’s Operational Headquarters.

Okonkwo stated that he was accused of stealing money and held in a room from morning till night without access to his lawyer or family.

Okonkwo was forced to transfer money from his bank accounts and was later handed over to the police.

He claimed to have been harassed, detained, and subjected to inhumane treatment, including sleeping outside in the open where he was bitten by mosquitoes and fell ill.

The applicants seek relief for the alleged unlawful arrest, detention, and harassment, which they claim breached their fundamental rights. They urge the court to protect them from further harassment and violation of their rights.

According to Okonkwo, the respondents’ actions caused significant trauma and inconvenience.

The lawsuit alleged the arrest, detention, and harassment were “illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional.”

This case highlights concerns about police brutality, harassment, and human rights violations in Nigeria.

The outcome will be closely watched as it seeks to hold accountable those responsible for alleged abuses.