UMUAHIA, Abia State – A major breach of security and an alarming act of impunity is being alleged at the Isialangwa Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force, prompting an urgent call for investigation from a human rights organization.
The Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation, Abia State Chapter, has filed an open petition to the State Commissioner of Police detailing a disturbing incident where a group of civilians allegedly invaded the police station and physically assaulted officers on duty.
According to the petition, the incident occurred on Thursday last week when “unidentified young men dressed in black on black stormed the Area Command headquarters… in a tricycle and three motorcycles.” The group is accused of carrying out a brazen attack on personnel within the station.
The petition provides specific and graphic details of the assault, alleging that a female Police Inspector, identified as Inspector Beatrice, was slapped three times. Furthermore, a pregnant Corporal, Chioma Peter, was physically attacked, leaving both officers hospitalized.
Male officers were also targeted. The Foundation states, “Pc Chiemela Martins and Pc Peter Ugochukwu were given human bites, Pc Chiemela Martin was bitten on his neck while Peter Ugochukwu on his hand.”
However, the most shocking aspect of the event, according to the petitioners, is that the suspects were allegedly released without charge by the Second-in-Command (2IC) to the Area Commander.
This action has raised serious questions about accountability and the administration of justice within the command. The petition asks pointedly: “How can civilians invade a police facility, attack uniformed officers, and be allowed to walk free without investigation?”
In a statement, Ochiegbu Marvelous C, the State Director of the Foundation, emphasized the broader implications of the incident. “This undermines the image and authority of the Nigeria Police Force and equally affects the morale and fundamental rights of the officers who swore to protect lives and property,” he said.
He further posed a grave concern to the public: “If police officers can be assaulted in their own command without justice, then what hope do ordinary citizens have?”
The Foundation is calling on the Commissioner of Police to:
1. Order a full-scale investigation into the attack.
2. Investigate the conduct of the 2IC who authorized the release of the suspects.
3. Ensure the perpetrators are rearrested and prosecuted.
4. Take disciplinary action against any officer found to have compromised justice.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” the petition concludes, urging swift action to prevent further erosion of public trust in the Force.
As of the time of this report, the Abia State Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the allegations.
