Edet Ikotidem
On July 11, 2024, the High Court of Justice in Uyo, presided over by Hon. Justice Joy Unwana, delivered a landmark judgment.
The court ruled in favor of the applicant, Barrister Ebong Sampson Sunday, against the respondents, CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu.
This judgment declared the arrest and detention of Barrister Sunday on as unlawful, illegal, and unconstitutional.
The incident that led to this legal battle began when Barrister Ebong Sampson Sunday visited the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Uyo. His objective was straightforward: to request bail for his client, who he believed had been illegally detained by CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu.
Instead of addressing the lawyer’s request, CSP Ekene turned around and arrested Barrister Sunday, detaining him for fulfilling his constitutional duties.
This blatant abuse of power not only shocked the legal community but also highlighted the systemic issues within the police force.
In her ruling, Hon. Justice Joy Unwana condemned the actions of CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu, describing them as a gross violation of Barrister Sunday’s rights.
The court awarded damages of N1m and costs of N100,000.00 against CSP Ekene, totaling 1.1 million Naira.
This ruling was a significant victory for the rule of law and a stern rebuke to those who misuse their positions of power.
CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu has long been known for his illegal activities and misconduct. His actions have consistently embarrassed the Nigeria Police Force and eroded public trust in law enforcement. Numerous allegations of unlawful arrests, detentions, and other abuses of power have been levied against him.
Despite his reputation, he continued to operate with impunity, largely due to the support he received from certain politicians in Akwa Ibom State.
The judgment against CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu has reignited calls for greater accountability within the Nigeria Police Force. There is a growing demand for his immediate dismissal and prosecution for his numerous crimes against humanity.
The legal community and the public alike are urging the authorities to take decisive action to prevent him from continuing his reign of terror.
In light of this recent judgment, concerned citizens are reaching out to the Nigeria Police Force Ekiti State Command. They are warning them about the impending transfer of CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu from Akwa Ibom State to Ekiti State.
There is a legitimate fear that his notorious behavior will continue, victimizing more innocent people and disrupting the peace in Ekiti State.
It is imperative that the police authorities heed these warnings and take preventive measures to ensure the safety and security of the public.
The case of CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu also highlights the complicity of certain politicians in shielding corrupt officers from accountability. The support he received from some politicians in Akwa Ibom State allowed him to continue his illegal activities without fear of repercussions.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for political will to support the enforcement of justice and the protection of human rights.
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Moreover, the legal community in Akwa Ibom State has a critical role to play. For too long, many lawyers were intimidated by CSP Ekene’s reputation and chose to remain silent.
However, the tide is turning, and there is a growing movement within the legal profession to stand united against such abuses of power. By joining forces, lawyers can help ensure that justice is served and that no one is above the law.
The ruling by Hon. Justice Joy Unwana is a victory for justice and the rule of law. It sends a powerful message that no matter how powerful an individual may seem, they are not above the law.
This judgment is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who have fought tirelessly to hold CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu accountable for his actions.
While this judgment is a significant step forward, the fight for justice is far from over. CSP Ekene Joseph Nwosu still poses a threat, and there are more judgments pending against him in Akwa Ibom State. The legal community, civil society, and concerned citizens must remain vigilant and continue to advocate his removal from the police force and his prosecution for his crimes.
