IGP petitioned over continued detention of man released by court

The family of Godwin Francis Akpan, recently released by the Federal Capital Territory High Court, is criticizing the Nigerian police for his ongoing detention. Through their lawyer, Edeh Uchenna, the family has sent a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, demanding Akpan's immediate release. They argue that his fundamental rights are being violated in the current situation.

Akpan is being held in connection with a dispute between his employer and another company, which the family describes as a commercial or civil matter. The petition reveals that Akpan was detained based on allegations of criminal conduct, but he has not been formally charged by the police. While the police have the right to investigate potential offenses, the lawyer representing Akpan's family insists that these investigations must occur within the boundaries of due process, respect for individual liberty, and acknowledgment of judicial authority.

The family's lawyer emphasizes that the police's powers should be exercised in accordance with the law and the court's release order. The family is not requesting a waiver from the investigative process but is urging for it to be conducted in a lawful and transparent manner. They reiterate that they are not seeking immunity from the investigation and that any outstanding issues should be resolved through appropriate legal and institutional channels.