Barr. Dantani Condemns IGP Egbetokun For Unlawfully Declaring Barr. Omaga Wanted
——-Calls for Adherence to Legal Procedures in Ongoing Case
Renowned constitutional lawyer and human rights activist, Hamza Nuhu Dantani, has strongly criticized the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, for unlawfully declaring his client, Barrister Edward Ejembi Omaga, wanted without a court order.
In a letter dated December 30, 2024, addressed to the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, FCID, and copied to the Force PRO and the Commissioner of Police, General Investigation Department, FCID Abuja, Dantani accused the police of violating legal procedures. He expressed concern over what he described as persistent harassment and threats against his client following Omaga’s petition against influential individuals.
The Nigeria Police Force through ACP OLUMYIWA ADEJOBI, FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER declared Barr. Ejembi Omaga Wanted on the 30th December, 2024 OVER ALLEGED CRIMINAL DEFAMATION AND OTHER SUNDRY OFFENCES.
According to Dantani, the declaration is particularly troubling as it was issued despite his prior communication to the police that Omaga was undergoing medical treatment. The lawyer emphasized that a Fundamental Rights Enforcement proceeding (SUIT NO: CV/5181/2024) is pending before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and has been duly served on the respondents.
Dantani’s letter criticized the police for bypassing the judicial process: “It is deeply concerning that the Police has chosen not to respond to the suit but instead declared our client wanted and published this declaration without a court order a blatant violation of the law.” He said.
The lawyer further argued that the police acted in disregard of the Rule of Law, referencing Section 36 (2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which stipulates that the police must obtain a court order before declaring any individual wanted. He cited a recent FCT High Court ruling, which deemed such declarations by investigative agencies illegal.
Dantani drew a parallel to a previous case involving Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, where the police adhered to legal procedures during a sub judice matter. He called for consistency in upholding the rule of law, regardless of the parties involved:
“The police cannot selectively adhere to the rule of law based on the parties involved. This unlawful act reinforces the very reasons why our client sought judicial intervention.”
The letter concluded with a demand for the immediate cessation of all harassment and threats against Barr. Omaga. Dantani urged the Inspector-General to cancel the illegal declaration and ensure that his client’s fundamental rights are respected.
This case highlights growing concerns over the misuse of police authority and the need for strict adherence to judicial processes in addressing disputes involving private citizens and law enforcement agencies.
