The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a query to the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Kanayo Uzuegbu.
BELLNEWS reports that the CP is queried over the prolonged detention of traditional ruler, Igwe Herbert Ukuta.
The monarch has been held for over a month without trial, leading to allegations of abuse of power and illegal detention against Uzuegbu.
The issue began on May 4, 2024, when Igwe Ukuta was invited to the police headquarters over a clash between policemen and land grabbers in his community.
The clash took place on May 3 with two policemen, a local security agent and one other person killed.
This led to a reprisal by the police and Nigerian Army with no fewer than 23 residential buildings, over 30 motorcycles and about 15 vehicles burnt. Belongings worth millions of naira were also allegedly looted by the security personnel
It is understood that despite Governor Peter Mbah’s directive to release the monarch, the police refused, demanding a refund of N1.5 million allegedly spent on his upkeep during detention.
The IGP’s query, dated May 30, 2024, directs the Commissioner to furnish comments on the matter.
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,” the partly read.