In a scathing letter dated April 17, 2024, obtained by SaharaReporters, Alex Oketa Chambers has leveled serious allegations against Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun and officers of the Nigeria Police Force, citing contempt of court judgments, abuse of office, and violations of fundamental rights in a property dispute involving Senan Integrated Nigeria Limited.
The law firm’s head, Alexander Oketa, highlighted the deployment of armed police personnel to engage in a confrontation over the ownership and possession of Plot HT2 (now Plot No.86), Cadastral Zone B16, Abuja, despite two court judgments favoring Senan Integrated Nigeria Limited.
Oketa demanded immediate action from the IGP, including restraint, compensation, restoration of the status quo ante, and an apology to Senan Integrated Nigeria Limited.
The letter outlined the history of the dispute and the firm’s efforts to seek redress through legal channels. Despite obtaining favorable judgments from the Federal Capital Territory High Court, the law firm alleges continued harassment and interference by the police at the behest of Senan Integrated Nigeria Limited’s opponents.
According to Oketa, the recent escalation occurred on April 16, 2024, when a contingent of heavily armed policemen, purportedly acting under the IGP’s orders, forcibly evicted Senan Integrated Nigeria Limited from the property. The police operation, characterized by intimidation and disregard for due process, resulted in the loss of valuable equipment and materials belonging to the company.
The letter further accuses the police of detaining Senan Integrated Nigeria Limited’s security personnel and obstructing the law firm’s efforts to secure their release. Despite multiple attempts to engage with police authorities, the firm alleges a lack of cooperation and transparency in the handling of the matter.
In closing, Oketa emphasized the firm’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and urged the IGP to respect the sanctity of court judgments and refrain from further extrajudicial actions. He warned of potential legal repercussions should the police persist in their disregard for the law.
The letter serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing businesses and individuals seeking justice in Nigeria’s legal system, underscoring the importance of accountability and respect for due process in law enforcement agencies.