The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Gowon Estate Division in Lagos State has been dismissed over the alleged detainment of a lawyer seeking justice for his client.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the removal in a statement on Wednesday.
This development stemmed from Lagos-based lawyer Olumide Sonupe’s hospitalization after his detention while attempting to secure his client’s bail at the Moshalashi Police Station in Alimosho on December 30, 2023.
According to Hundeyin, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, ordered the immediate removal of the officer from the division.
He said that this followed the conclusion of investigations into the allegations made against the DPO, as published in the media on Jan. 4.
He added that the CP Fayoade has directed the Command’s Legal Unit to engage with the Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch, for discussions aiming to prevent future incidents and foster improved Police-Lawyers relations.
Emphasizing the commitment to upholding the rule of law, the police spokesperson reiterated that any officer found violating regulations will face appropriate sanctions.