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The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has queried the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Kanayo Uzuegbu over the unlawful detention of Igwe Herbert Ukuta, the traditional ruler of Igga Kingdom in Uzo-Uwani Council Area, for more than a month without trial.
The Eastern Updates gathered that the monarch was called to the police headquarters on May 4, 2024, following a clash between policemen purportedly on illegal duty, land grabbers, and gunmen at the community’s farm settlement.
Three people were killed in the May 3 altercation: a local security agent, two police officers, and one other person.
Following the murders, the Nigerian Army and police staged a retaliatory operation that resulted in the burning of 23 residential buildings, over 30 motorcycles, and around 15 vehicles. Security forces were also accused of stealing valuables valued at millions of naira.
Read Also: Police Headquarters In Ebonyi Ambushed By Gunmen
The traditional ruler was subsequently detained after honoring the invitation, allegedly on the order of the state governor, Peter Mbah.
The traditional ruler has been in Police custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Enugu since May 4.
Reacting to the development, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has queried the Commissioner of Police over the monarch’s continued detention.
A letter of query dated May 30, 2024 with Ref No: CB:7000/IGP.SEC/ABJ/VOL.720/190 and signed Principal Staff Officer II to Inspector General of Police, ACP Idris Abdullahi Abubakar.
The letter, titled “RE: A Petition Against A Gross Abuse Of Police Powers By The Commissioner Of Police, Enugu…,” was specifically addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command.
The letter partly read: “Attached herewith is copy of letter dated 22nd May 2024 received from the House of Laws on the above underlined subject.
“I respectfully convey the directive of the Inspector- General of Police that you furnish comment (on the illegal detention of Igwe Herbert Ukuta for more than one month without trial).
“Accept the assurances of the esteemed regards of the Inspector-General of Police, please.”
Despite Governor Mbah’s directive to release the monarch over a week ago, the police have refused to do so, a family member told SaharaReporters.
