Leadership journalist sues Nigerian Police over arrest and detention

The two Leadership Newspapers staff arrested and detained by the Nigerian police over a story on a “presidential directive” targeting the opposition and containing plans to raise petrol prices, among other things, have dragged the police to a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Those arrested on Monday include the Managing Editor, Mr. Chuks Ohuegbe; Head of Human Resource, Mrs. Chinyere Fred-Adegbulugbe; News Editor, Mr. Tony Amoekedo and a correspondent, Chibuzor Ukaibe.

The paper, on Tuesday disclosed that Tony Amoekedo; and Chibuzo Ukaibe; are suing the Inspector General of Police for breach of trust.

They are demanding N10 million damages.

In a suit filed by its counsel, Ugo Udoji, the journalists are seeking enforcement of their fundamental human rights as guaranteed under Section 34, 35 and 41 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, enforceable under Section 46 of the said constitution and articles 4, 5, 6, articles 9 (2) of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights (Ratification and Enforcement Act).

In addition, they want the order to operate as a stay against further arrest and probable detention.

Presently, they are required to report to the Force Headquarters in Abuja daily, until they are fully cleared.

While Chinyere Fred-Adegbulugbe, former Editor of Sunday LEADERSHIP, now executive Director, human capital; and Chuks Ohuegbe, Managing Editor, were released late Monday night, Messrs Amoekedo and Ukaibe were released earlier, on Tuesday evening.

#headline #hot