By Nkechi Eze
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has made a bold move to uphold judicial authority by formally petitioning the Police Service Commission. The petition accuses top police officials in Yobe State of serious misconduct and blatant disregard for court orders.
Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, is demanding immediate action against the Area Commander of Potiskum Division and the Yobe State Commissioner of Police due to their alleged disregard for legal procedures, which poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s judicial system.
On October 29, 2024, officers from the Potiskum Area Command reportedly stormed the Chief Magistrate Court in Potiskum, halting legal proceedings and intimidating court officials, lawyers, and the public.
According to CISLAC, the officers forcibly removed two convicted individuals, Abdulahi Aji Bulama and Mr. Kabir (A.T.O.), directly defying a lawful detention order. The action, described as “a blatant disregard for judicial authority,” sparked outrage among human rights advocates and raised concerns over Nigeria’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.
The petition highlights that this incident is part of a troubling pattern of non-compliance by the Potiskum Area Command, which, CISLAC claims, has repeatedly disregarded court summons and arrest warrants.
Despite multiple court orders and hearings, CISLAC alleges, police in Potiskum have flouted judicial directives and ignored the rule of law, undermining public trust and tarnishing the credibility of the Nigerian police force.
“This kind of interference in the judicial process undermines not only the integrity of the justice system but also public trust in the police,” said Rafsanjani, noting that the officers’ conduct breached the Nigerian Police Code of Conduct and ignored both national and international legal standards.
CISLAC is pushing for accountability and reform within Nigeria’s police force. The organization’s petition seeks a transparent investigation into the alleged misconduct of certain officers, followed by disciplinary action against those found guilty. Additionally, CISLAC wants to see enhanced training on legal and ethical compliance to prevent similar incidents in the future.
By advocating for these measures, CISLAC aims to send a strong message that no one is above the law, promoting a culture of accountability and respect for judicial authority. This move is crucial in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring that the police service operates with integrity.
CISLAC’s efforts are a step towards creating a more just and equitable society, where those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions.
