Alleged Court Invasion: CISLAC files petition against Potiskum police officers
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has submitted a formal petition to the Police Service Commission, demanding prompt accountability for the Area Commandant of the Potiskum Division and the Yobe State Commissioner of Police due to alleged misconduct, judicial contempt, and violation of established protocols.
In a petition signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani,the petition pertains to a troubling incident that occurred on October 29, 2024.
Armed officers from the Potiskum Area Command reportedly stormed the Chief Magistrate Court in Potiskum, interrupting legal proceedings and instilling fear among court personnel, attorneys, and litigants.
READ ALSO: CISLAC petitions IGP, NASS, others over misconduct of police against judiciary in Potiskum
The officers forcibly extracted two convicted individuals, Abdulahi Aji Bulama and Mr. Kabir (A.T.O.), despite a lawful court order mandating their detention.
CISLAC asserts that these actions not only undermined judicial authority but also constituted a flagrant violation of the Police Act, which emphasises the importance of upholding integrity, respect for the rule of law, and adherence to judicial processes.
The petition outlines a troubling history of non-compliance with court directives by the Potiskum Area Command, which has neglected to serve summonses and disregarded arrest warrants issued by the courts.
Following multiple hearings where suspects failed to appear, an arrest warrant was ultimately issued.
However, during court proceedings on October 29, 2024, the police officers removed the convicted individuals from the court shortly after sentencing, openly challenging the court’s authority.
CISLAC highlights serious violations, including contempt of court, breaches of the Nigerian Police Code of Conduct, and a failure to adhere to both national and international legal standards.
In its petition, CISLAC calls for public condemnation of the officers’ actions, a comprehensive investigation, and disciplinary measures in line with the Police Act.
Additionally, it recommends compulsory training for police personnel on legal and ethical standards to help avert such misconduct in the future.
Through this petition to the Police Service Commission, CISLAC seeks to restore public trust in the police force, reinforce judicial independence, and uphold the principles of justice and accountability.
The petition concludes with a plea for immediate intervention to prevent any further erosion of confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
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