The Nigeria Police Force has officially confirmed the arrest and detention of Peace Ekom Robert, a Nigerian woman, on allegations of involvement in fraudulent activities.
This confirmation comes directly from the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, who issued a press release. The statement also mentioned that following police investigations, she will face charges in court.
Earlier reports from Friday had detailed how Nigerian Police operatives had descended upon her residence, leading to the harassment of her relatives and close associates. They had positioned themselves strategically around her house.
She had said, “They have been calling my family members since this morning. They are harassing my friends and the people that I am close to. They surround everywhere. They want to pick me up. And this is because they want to silence me.”
SaharaReporters reported on August 19, 2023 that Robert sued the Acting Inspector General of the Nigeria Police Force, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, the Police Service Commission, three police officers, and one Ifenyinwa Anthonia Olua (Ugo) to the Akwa Ibom State High Court in Uyo.
Ekom is seeking N520 million in damages for the alleged violation of her fundamental and constitutional rights.
Ekom had also alleged that the Commissioner of Police, Admin Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja, CP Ibrahim Baba Zango, has been making attempts on her life, sending police personnel to kidnap and kill her despite the pendency of court action against him and police authorities.
Ekom categorically stated that she at no time revolted against the officers of the NPF over the proper conduct of investigation on this offshore transaction that was initiated by Ifeyinwa Anthonia Olua and her partners.
Meanwhile in the release on Saturday, Adejobi, the police spokesperson said, “The Nigeria Police Force wish to provide clarity on the ongoing investigation involving Ms. Peace Ekom Robert, who is suspected of engaging in serial fraudulent activities, which have affected numerous individuals, including the petitioner.
Despite multiple requests for her cooperation and the presence of substantial evidentiary material, Ms. Robert consistently declined to engage with the Police, and was subsequently declared a person of interest.
“It is essential to correct any misconceptions regarding allegations of police misconduct. The assertion that the police surrounded and threatened Ms. Robert’s life is categorically false. Police Operatives acted upon credible intelligence on her whereabouts received from a concerned member of the public, enabling them to locate and apprehend Ms. Robert.
“At present, Ms. Robert is in custody, and the investigative process will continue with the utmost diligence and impartiality. Ms. Robert will be given the opportunity to present her perspective during the course of this investigation, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment of her involvement or lack thereof in the alleged fraudulent activities. Meanwhile, we urge members of the public who have been defrauded or have any pending case with the suspect to show up and relate with the police operatives investigating her alleged serial fraud, impersonation, and cyberstalking cases, at the Police Special Fraud Unit, Force Criminal Investigation Department, Force Headquarters, Abuja, for diligent disposition of the case accordingly.
“Upon conclusion of Police investigations into more available credible evidence, Ms Peace will be charged to court.”
