Detained Nnamdi Emeh
The Nigeria Police Force has distanced itself from the continued incarceration of whistleblower, Nnamdi Emeh, who remains in custody over a year after being granted bail by the court.
In May 2023, the police arraigned Emeh, who was an IT consultant with the Anambra State Police Command attached to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu. He was arraigned before the Federal High Court in Awka on a 12-count charge of impersonation, fraud stealing, among others.
Through an online platform, Emeh in January 2023 revealed alleged evidence of atrocities ranging from organ harvesting and extra-judicial killings allegedly committed by some officers of the Anambra command. He was declared wanted for impersonation on February 20, 2023, and arrested in Benin Republic two weeks later.
In April 2023, the command accused Emeh of hacking into a suspect’s bank account and stealing a whopping sum of N47 million from the account. The 26-year-old was arraigned one month later in charge no. FHC/AWK/C/60/2023 and granted bail by Justice F.O. Riman.
However, the whistleblower has remained in prison custody despite meeting bail since May 2023, sparking controversy. Reacting in a Saturday statement, Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the police no longer have a say in the matter.
The statement reads, “The attention of the Nigeria Police Force has been drawn to recent reports circulating in the media concerning one Mr. Nnamdi Emeh, who is currently facing trial for alleged criminal offences.
“The NPF wishes to clarify that Mr. Emeh was lawfully apprehended following credible allegations against him, which were thoroughly investigated and presented before a competent court of law. The charges preferred against him were duly filed, and he was arraigned before the Federal High Court, Awka, in line with due process.
“It is important to emphasise that the judiciary operates independently, and the court retains the exclusive prerogative to evaluate the evidence presented, determine bail conditions, and take any further necessary actions as guided by the law.
“Mr. Emeh was granted bail on terms established by the court. It therefore behoves on the suspect to take steps to meet such conditions and not resort to unnecessary media rampage.”
Adejobi said the police remained committed to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. “The Force is also mindful of its duty to investigate allegations against all persons, including its officers, and to subject any suspect to the established legal process.
“While the case against Mr. Emeh continues in court, we appeal to the public to allow the judicial process to take its full course without undue speculation or interference. We urge all stakeholders, including members of the media, to present information responsibly and to allow the legal process to determine the outcome of the matter in the interest of justice,” the force spokesman added.
