A Cameroonian lawmaker, Manghe Romeo Etta, has filed a suit against the Nigeria Police Force over alleged violation of his fundamental human rights, seeking ₦200 million in damages.

The Cameroonian lawmaker, a youth senator representing Manyu Division in the National Assembly of the Republic of Cameroon, alleged that he was unlawfully arrested, detained and extorted by police officers in Cross River State following the purchase of a BMW X1 vehicle in Ikom.

According to court documents, Etta said he bought the vehicle from a dealer in Ikom and duly followed all required procedures, including registration and transfer of ownership.

Despite presenting documents to prove ownership, he claimed the police impounded the vehicle on allegations that it was stolen.

He alleged that his arrest and detention were instigated by the car dealer and another individual, over what he described commercial transaction.

“I was arrested and detained by the Nigeria Police over a transaction I lawfully carried out. Despite presenting all vehicle particulars, the police refused to release my car or return the documents,” Etta stated.

The lawmaker further alleged that he was detained for about 12 hours in what he described as an uninhabitable environment, during which he vomited several times. He also claimed he was compelled to pay ₦150,000 for bail, while his vehicle was towed and kept at the Divisional Police Station in Ikom.

Etta’s counsel, Armstrong Takim Achu of Armstrong T. Achu & Co., Calabar, said the suit was instituted to seek redress for the alleged abuse of his client’s fundamental rights.

“My client is seeking damages for the violation of his fundamental rights by officers of the Nigeria Police. The court remains the last hope of the common man,” Achu said.

The matter, suit number HC/146F/2025, is before the High Court of Cross River State, presided over by Justice Theresa Agom.

The court adjourned the case to February 10, 2026, for hearing and directed all parties to be present.

Reacting, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Cross River State, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said he was yet to be fully briefed on the matter.

“I will reach out once I get full details from the Divisional Police Officer in Ikom. I will get back to you after I am fully briefed,” the PPRO said.

The case is expected to draw attention as it raises questions on police conduct and accountability in Nigeria. (TRIBUNE)

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