Eko Hot Blog reports that a lawyer, Douglas Ogbankwa, who was allegedly beaten and detained by officers of the Department of State Services for refusing to allow them to take his client’s statement in his absence shares his experience:
Here are the questions followed by the lawyer’s responses:
One of your colleagues made a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that you were assaulted by operatives of the Department of State Service on September 26. Can you explain what happened that day?
“I visited the DSS office on 1, High Court Road, Benin City, Edo State, at about 11:45 am on September 26, 2023, with my client and we were in the waiting room when two ladies at intervals wanted to take my client to go and make a statement without my presence. I protested that I needed to be present by the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.”
Why did you and your client go to the DSS office?
“It was a case that had to do with the late wife of my client. This was not a national security issue. I believe I was unjustly and unlawfully targeted by that DSS officer.”
What were your thoughts when the order was given to lock you up?
“I was scared for my life because of how the DSS works. To me, I escaped an assassination attempt; that is the way I see it. My life is still threatened, and I have written to Mr President also because nothing must happen to me.”
How did you feel when you were beaten?
“I felt utterly humiliated and debased and when I got home, I wept for Nigeria. It is a sign that Nigerian security agencies have imbibed democratic principles.”
After you were detained, did they take your client’s statement the way they wanted to?
“Yes, they did. It is a shame and a sham and even sadder that DSS officers who are meant to uphold the law are operating like cavemen of the 21st century.”
In a statement issued by the Nigerian Bar Association Security Agencies Relations, it was stated that the NBA was investigating the matter and that the matter would be pursued to the full extent of law. Have you been contacted by the NBA-SARC?
“Yes, the NBA-SARC has contacted me. It is working on the matter, and I’ll also continue to provide them with all assistance needed to ensure that justice is done.”
Do you intend to sue the DSS for the assault, illegal detention, and infringement on your freedom?
“I will weigh my options, but those who attacked me will and must be brought to justice.”
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