The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the withdrawal of charges filed against the chairman of EFAB Properties and directed a fresh investigation into the case, amid concerns raised by civil society organisations (CSOs) over the handling of the matter.
The CSOs described the move as a welcome development, saying it reflects a commitment to due process in a case they alleged was marred by procedural lapses and possible abuse of legal processes.
The organisations claimed the case had been mishandled, alleging that “a serial land grabber was portrayed as a victim, while the real victim was made the accused.”
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Professor Barika Dominic Saro Laka of The Mighty One Empowerment Foundation accused the Police Special Tactical Squad (STS) of filing what he termed “trumped-up charges,” alleging that the unit acted in favour of an individual already under investigation by both the police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The groups also faulted the STS for allegedly initiating legal action without thorough investigation, warning that such practices could undermine public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
“You cannot sacrifice justice on the altar of speed,” one of the CSOs said in a joint statement, questioning the rationale behind parallel investigations by multiple agencies on the same matter.
They further alleged that the STS secured a Direct Criminal Investigation order to arraign one Mr. Nworah without adequately establishing the facts, describing the step as premature.
In a related development, the coalition cautioned media organisations against publishing unverified claims, stressing the need for responsible journalism in sensitive legal matters.
“An accused person cannot use media propaganda to suppress allegations,” the statement said.
Describing the withdrawal of the charges as “a triumph of truth over manipulation,” the groups expressed optimism that the reinvestigation would ensure accountability.
They added that anyone found culpable at the end of the process should be brought to justice in order to preserve the integrity of the system.