The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC), calling for urgent action against the Area Commandant of Potiskum Division and the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State over alleged misconduct, breach of conduct, and contempt of court.
In a petition signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization detailed an incident that occurred on October 29, 2024. Armed officers from the Potiskum Area Command allegedly stormed the Chief Magistrate Court in Potiskum, disrupting court proceedings and creating an atmosphere of intimidation among court officials, lawyers, and litigants. The officers reportedly forcibly removed two convicted individuals, Abdulahi Aji Bulama and Mr. Kabir (A.T.O.), who were ordered to be detained by the court.
CISLAC criticized the officers’ actions as a blatant disregard for judicial authority and a violation of the Police Act, which mandates integrity, respect for the rule of law, and adherence to judicial processes. The organization argued that such interference undermines public confidence in the police force and jeopardizes Nigeria’s commitment to democratic principles and judicial independence.
The petition also highlighted a pattern of non-compliance by the Potiskum Area Command, which included failure to serve summons and disregard for arrest warrants issued by the court. Despite repeated orders, the suspects avoided hearings, prompting the court to issue an arrest warrant. While the suspects were eventually brought before the court on October 29, they were removed by police officers shortly after sentencing, in direct violation of the court’s authority.
CISLAC’s petition outlined multiple infractions, including contempt of court, breach of the Nigerian Police Code of Conduct, and violations of both national and international legal standards. The organization called for a public condemnation of the officers’ actions, a thorough investigation, and disciplinary measures in line with the Police Act.
Additionally, CISLAC recommended mandatory legal and ethical compliance training for police officers to prevent future misconduct. It emphasized the importance of upholding judicial independence and maintaining public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.
By bringing these concerns to the Police Service Commission, CISLAC aims to reinforce accountability within the police force, ensure respect for the judiciary, and safeguard democratic values. The petition concluded with a plea for immediate intervention to prevent further erosion of trust in the Nigerian justice system.