FENRAD condemns alleged Police brutality, extortion in Uturu community

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has strongly condemned the alleged brutality, intimidation, harassment, and degrading treatment reportedly carried out by officers attached to the Nigeria Police Force, Ukwunwangwu Uturu Division in Abia State.

In a press release issued and signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the frontline civil society organisation expressed deep concern over what it described as increasing incidents of unlawful arrests, extortion, violent assault, and public humiliation of residents, especially young people within the Uturu community in Okigwe area of Abia State.

According to the group, the disturbing allegations against some police officers, if not urgently addressed, could further erode public confidence in law enforcement institutions and undermine the constitutional rights and dignity of citizens.

FENRAD stated that it was unacceptable for residents who should ordinarily feel protected by security agencies to allegedly live in fear of harassment and abuse from officers entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding lives and property.

The organisation said recurring complaints from residents painted a troubling picture of abuse of authority, excessive use of force, and disregard for human rights and the rule of law.

The rights advocacy group specifically condemned alleged illegal extortion, unauthorized roadblocks, brutal assault, arbitrary arrests, unlawful detention, intimidation, and profiling of youths based on appearance or possession of phones, laptops, vehicles, and other personal belongings.

FENRAD further denounced alleged threats, harassment, and abuse of power by security personnel operating within the area.

The organisation reiterated that no citizen should be subjected to torture, humiliation, or unlawful treatment contrary to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Police Act 2020, the Anti-Torture Act, and other relevant human rights instruments guiding law enforcement operations.

As part of its demands, FENRAD called on the Abia State Police Command and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to immediately launch an independent and transparent investigation into the allegations levelled against officers attached to the Uturu Division.

The organisation also urged the police authorities to identify and sanction any officer found culpable of misconduct, brutality, extortion, or other forms of human rights violations.

In addition, the group demanded the dismantling of all alleged illegal checkpoints and extortion points within the area, while calling for strict compliance with professional policing standards and internationally recognised human rights principles.

FENRAD stressed the need for the police to restore public confidence through accountability, responsible policing, and effective community engagement.

The organisation also appealed to residents and victims of alleged abuse to remain peaceful and law-abiding while responsibly documenting incidents and pursuing justice through lawful means.

According to the group, effective policing can only thrive in an atmosphere built on mutual respect, professionalism, public trust, and accountability, warning that the use of violence, fear, and intimidation against innocent citizens has no place in a democratic society.

FENRAD maintained that the people of Uturu and all residents of Abia State deserve security, justice, dignity, and protection rather than oppression and brutality.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, justice, accountability, and responsible governance across Nigeria.