A serving Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Edet Inwang, posted to the Delta State Police Command, has reportedly been subjected to torture and brutalization by Nigerian Army personnel over an alleged parking violation incident that occurred on December 9, 2023.
According to the account, ASP Edet Inwang parked his vehicle near the Nigerian Army’s 63 Brigade in Asaba to purchase some items. During the incident, he encountered a Lance Corporal Onyibuchi of the Intelligence Department attached to the 63 Brigade, who reportedly began ranting and giving unclear instructions from a distance.
As Edet attempted to comply with the instructions, the Lance Corporal, along with approximately ten other soldiers, allegedly assaulted and brutalized him to the point of losing consciousness. He was later taken to a military hospital for medical care.
While in the hospital, a fellow officer who had previously worked with Edet identified him. The soldiers involved claimed they were unaware that he was a police officer.
The incident has sparked outrage, questioning the excessive use of force by the military for an alleged parking violation. The assailants are called upon to be punished, and there are demands for adequate compensation for ASP Edet Inwang’s injuries.
Efforts have been made to bring the matter to the attention of the Chief of Army Staff, emphasizing the need for urgent action to address the violation of fundamental rights and hold the responsible soldiers accountable.
The incident highlights concerns about human rights abuses and the need for consequences when citizens’ rights are brazenly violated. Calls are made for a swift and thorough investigation into the matter by the Nigerian Army.
