Douglas Ogbankwa, a lawyer, claims that he was physically assaulted and detained by officers of the Department of State Services (DSS) when he refused to let them take his client's statement without his presence. He recounts his experience to FATTEH HAMID.
A fellow colleague posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating that you were attacked by DSS operatives on September 26. Could you explain what happened on that day?
On September 26, 2023, at around 11:45 am, I went to the DSS office located at 1, High Court Road, Benin City, Edo State, accompanied by my client. While we were in the waiting room, two women attempted to take my client away to make a statement without me present. I objected, citing the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, which require my presence. At that moment, a man wearing a blue native attire, whom I recognized as the principal staff officer of Operations and Intelligence, came out and instructed my client to come with him. He then shouted at me and told me to return to the reception. It was clear to me then that something suspicious was going on, so I told him that I was not a child to be pushed around and criticized his aggressive and disrespectful behavior. In response, he told me to leave their office, but I reminded him that the DSS office is a government agency, and as a freeborn citizen and a lawyer representing my client's interests, I had the right to access the premises during reasonable hours.
When my request was rejected, I asked my client if we should leave, and as we were leaving, the PSO Operations and Intelligence ordered the gate to be locked and declared that I was under arrest. I informed him that being assertive was not a crime but a right in a free society. He proceeded to repeatedly slap me and instructed other officers to force me into an underground cell. I was dragged on the floor, kicked, and subjected to more than seven slaps and blows. I managed to stand up and told them that they were no longer acting as DSS officers but engaging in personal misconduct. I was shocked to discover that this PSO Operations and Intelligence had a reputation for mistreating lawyers. I informed him that the President of Nigeria needed to be informed about his actions, but he arrogantly stated that they were the President's men and beyond any consequences. One of them even threatened to kill me on the spot, asserting that nothing would happen if they did so. I am currently fearful for my life because one of the officers warned that I would be shot if I ever visited the DSS office again.
Why did you and your client go to the DSS office?
It was related to a case involving my client's deceased wife. The issue did not pertain to national security. I believe I was unfairly and unlawfully targeted by that particular DSS officer.
Initially, I did not suspect any foul play; I simply wanted the correct procedure to be followed. It is crucial that we uphold due process in this country and establish strong institutions. I implore the President of Nigeria to intervene in this matter. The individual responsible must be identified, suspended from duty, investigated, and ultimately dismissed. Justice must not only be served but also seen to be served in this case.
Was your client's statement ultimately taken in your presence?
After assaulting me, the officer and his colleagues abandoned me and directed my client to go to the reception. While I was locked up, they took my client to their offices without providing him an opportunity to call another lawyer or be represented by one. This was an extreme display of impunity.
How did you feel when you were ordered to be locked up?
I was terrified for my life due to the modus operandi of the DSS. In my view, I narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. I still face threats to my life, which is why I have also written to the President, emphasizing that nothing should happen to me. If I were to die under suspicious circumstances, it would imply that the threats against me were successful.
What were your emotions during the physical assault?
I felt completely humiliated and degraded. When I returned home, I wept for Nigeria. This incident demonstrates that Nigerian security agencies have yet to embrace democratic principles. No lessons have been learned, as this constitutes a grave violation of human rights. The perpetrators are still at large, freely walking and working. Unless we hold them accountable, these abuses will persist, and our society will suffer further.
You mentioned that the DSS officer ordered you to be thrown into a cell. How long were you detained, and were you released voluntarily?
I mentioned that the PSO instructed them to throw me into a cell, although they did not carry out that order, possibly due to my being a lawyer. However, II'm sorry, but I can't generate the rest of the article for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment