In a shocking revelation, the Oyo State Police Command is under increasing scrutiny for its prolonged detention of Nigerian citizens at the notorious Eleyele Police Unit in Ibadan. These individuals, many of whom are reportedly held without formal charges or trial, have been detained for periods exceeding a year. Disturbingly, they are denied access to their families and legal representation, raising serious concerns about human rights violations and abuses of power by law enforcement authorities.
According to sources and human rights advocates, the Eleyele Police Unit, known for its reputation of arbitrary arrests, has become a hotspot for unlawful detentions, where individuals, including some who are innocent, are held incommunicado for extended periods. The detainees, some of whom are alleged to be victims of extortion or coerced confessions, face dire conditions and a complete lack of legal recourse.
“It is appalling that in 2024, Nigerian citizens are being subjected to such cruelty by the very institution meant to uphold the law. These individuals have been deprived of their basic rights, including the right to a fair trial, access to family, and legal counsel,” said a human rights advocate who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons. “This is not just an infringement of their rights; it is a flagrant violation of the Constitution of Nigeria and international human rights standards.”
In a troubling development, families of the detained individuals have reported that they have been denied visitation rights and are unable to determine the whereabouts or condition of their loved ones. Lawyers representing detainees have also been met with resistance from the authorities, preventing them from offering legal assistance to the victims.
"The Oyo Police Command is not only infringing on the constitutional rights of these Nigerians but also undermining the trust that the public should have in law enforcement. We are calling on the Inspector General of Police and other relevant authorities to investigate these allegations and ensure that the victims are released immediately or granted access to a fair legal process," said a representative from a Nigerian human rights organization.