By ohuakanwa Chibuzo
A hotelier Ayobami Idowu, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of D&G Motor Dealer Enterprises Limited and D&G Hotel, Event and Suites, Ijaiye, Ojokoro, Lagos, has taken legal action against the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for what he claims to be unlawful invasion and destruction of his home and business premises.
In a move that signals a significant legal battle, Idowu filed a lawsuit at the Lagos High Court in the Epe Judicial Division, seeking N100 million in damages over alleged rights violations. The respondents named in the suit include Brigadier-General Buba Marwa (rtd), the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, the Commander of NDLEA, Lagos Command, and Adekunle Oduola of the Lagos Command.
Idowu, represented by his legal team led by Chief M. Aliu of Complete Solicitors and Advocate, accuses the NDLEA of continuous invasion of his property, accompanied by threats of arrest and detention without legal justification. He describes these actions as “unlawful, illegal, barbaric, and unconstitutional.”
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According to Idowu, the invasions not only violated his rights to personal liberty, dignity, freedom of movement, and association but also infringed upon his right to own property as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and other relevant laws.
The hotelier alleges that he, along with his family, relatives, and staff members, have endured molestation, harassment, humiliation, and degrading treatment at the hands of NDLEA personnel, orchestrated by the respondents without any justifiable reason.
In his plea, Idowu seeks a declaration from the court that the routine invasion, unlawful search, and ransacking of his premises by NDLEA officials, coupled with an alleged extortion of N1 million, are barbaric and unconstitutional. He further requests an injunction restraining the respondents from further invading, arresting, or subjecting him to any form of harassment or humiliation.
Moreover, Idowu demands N100 million in damages for the psychological, mental, and emotional trauma inflicted upon him and a public apology published in two national newspapers.
The lawsuit underscores the growing concerns over alleged rights violations and abuse of power by law enforcement agencies in Nigeria. It also highlights the determination of citizens to seek legal redress and uphold their constitutional rights in the face of perceived injustices. As the case unfolds, it is expected to draw significant attention and scrutiny, shedding light on the broader issue of human rights protection and law enforcement accountability in the country.