By Okechukwu Nwanguma
The disturbing allegations emerging from Oporikoko Police Station in Delta State represent not just isolated misconduct, but a grave assault on human dignity, the rule of law, and Nigeria’s constitutional and international human rights obligations.
The account by the victim, Jenny James George, detailing arbitrary arrest, unlawful detention, forced nudity, physical assault, and coercion to confess to prostitution, points to serious violations that may amount to torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment, as defined under the Anti-Torture Act, as well as breaches of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
If proven, the actions allegedly ordered by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and carried out by officers and civilians constitute:
– Torture and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment
– Sexual and gender-based violence
– Arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention
– Abuse of authority and misuse of police powers
Forced confessions, contrary to due process and fair trial rights
These acts are not only unlawful but also reflect a deeply troubling pattern of impunity within parts of the Nigeria Police Force, where officers act outside the bounds of the law they are sworn to uphold.
The practice of targeting young women under the guise of “anti-prostitution raids,” subjecting them to degrading treatment, and extorting or coercing confessions has been repeatedly documented. It underscores the urgent need for institutional accountability, gender-sensitive policing, and enforcement of existing legal safeguards.
Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), therefore, calls for:
– Immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the allegations by the Police authorities, with oversight from the Police Service Commission and relevant human rights bodies.
– Suspension of the DPO and all officers implicated, pending the outcome of investigations.
– Criminal prosecution of all individuals found culpable, in accordance with the Anti-Torture Act and other applicable laws.
– Medical, psychological, and legal support for the victims, ensuring their protection from intimidation or reprisals.
– Public disclosure of findings and concrete disciplinary actions to restore public confidence.
– Structural reforms, including mandatory use of custody records, legal representation, and strict enforcement of safeguards under the Administration of Criminal Justice framework.
This case is a stark reminder that without accountability, abuses will persist and deepen public distrust in law enforcement institutions. The normalisation of violence, especially against women in custody, must be decisively confronted.
Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. Anything less will reinforce a dangerous culture where power is exercised without restraint, and citizens are left without protection.
The authorities must act swiftly and decisively. Silence or inaction in the face of such grave allegations would amount to complicity.
Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma is the Executive Director, RULAAC
