August 5, 2025
General

Lawyer Condemns Nigerian Police for Arresting Woman Over Husband’s Debt, Citing Abuse of Power

Policemen are monitoring the protesters as Nigerians are staging a protest over hardship and bad governance, tagged #EndBadGovernment, in Ikeja to Ojota, Lagos, Nigeria, on Thursday, August 1, 2024. (Photo by Adekunle Ajayi/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

A Nigerian lawyer has strongly criticized the police for arresting a woman over a debt claim made by her husband, arguing that the law enforcement agency has overstepped its bounds. The lawyer’s statement comes amid growing concerns about police abuse of power and the need for greater accountability within the force.

The incident in question involves a woman who was arrested by the police after her husband claimed she owed him a debt. The lawyer argued that the police had no authority to make the arrest, as debt collection is a civil matter that should be resolved through the courts.

“It is unacceptable for the police to act as debt collectors,” the lawyer said. “Their role is to maintain law and order, not to intervene in civil disputes. This kind of abuse of power is a threat to our democracy and the rule of law.”

The lawyer’s comments highlight a broader issue within Nigeria’s law enforcement system, where police officers often overstep their authority and engage in practices that are contrary to the law. This can include arresting individuals without proper cause, extorting money from citizens, and failing to investigate crimes thoroughly.

To address these issues, the lawyer called for greater accountability within the police force, including the establishment of an independent review board to investigate complaints of police misconduct. The lawyer also emphasized the need for greater public awareness about the role and responsibilities of the police, as well as the rights and obligations of citizens.

As the debate about police reform continues in Nigeria, the lawyer’s comments serve as a reminder of the need for a more accountable and transparent law enforcement system. By speaking out against abuses of power and advocating for greater accountability, the lawyer is helping to promote a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians.