Deji Adeyanju, an Abuja-based legal practitioner and human rights activist, has criticized the Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Police Force for purportedly subjecting controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, known as Portable, to humiliation during an attempt to arrest him over a civil matter.
Portable’s arrest on Tuesday, following a dispute related to a failed car purchase deal, sparked controversy. Reports indicated that Portable had allegedly refused to settle a debt incurred from purchasing a G-Wagon, paying only N13 million of the N27 million price and withholding the remaining N14 million, citing purported car faults.
In response to the incident, a video circulated on social media showing police officers forcefully apprehending Portable, drawing condemnation from Adeyanju. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Adeyanju denounced the actions of the police, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies are not tasked with debt recovery.
Adeyanju’s remarks underscore concerns over the alleged misuse of police power in civil disputes, highlighting the need for law enforcement to adhere to proper procedures and respect individuals’ rights during such encounters.