The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) has condemned the unlawful invasion of De-Latinos Concept, Umuahia, on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
CEHRAWS, while appreciating the Abia State governor, Alex Otti, said it is crucial to address the systemic issue of police misconduct and extrajudicial reprisals that this incident represents.
The group described the Governor’s directive to the Commissioner of Police to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice as a commendable step toward upholding the rule of law and safeguarding businesses in Abia State.
CEHRAWS, in a statement by the Executive Director, Okoye, Chuka Peter, noted that the facts suggest that if the officer(s) involved had acted with the professionalism expected of law enforcement, such a reckless show of force would not have occurred.
“There is no legal or procedural justification for the Gestapo-style invasion of De-Latinos, the destruction of property worth millions of naira, and the injuries inflicted on innocent persons,” the statement said.
“If the officer’s actions were in response to any alleged wrongdoing, the lawful approach would have been to properly document the case, file an official report, and seek redress through appropriate legal channels, including the courts.”
CEHRAWS likened the De-Latinos incident to that of October 2019, which took place at Ndiegoro community in Aba, where police set buildings on fire and displaced residents.
“Unfortunately, this is not an isolated event—it mirrors the October 2019 state-sponsored mass atrocity at the Okojumbo axis of Ndiegoro community in Aba, where over ten buildings were burned down, residents were displaced, and women and children suffered grave violations. These actions were carried out with impunity, and to date, no meaningful redress has been provided to the victims.”
“It is a fundamental principle of law that no level of provocation can justify an extrajudicial reprisal by a law enforcement officer.”
“A well-trained and responsible officer must operate strictly within the bounds of the law, regardless of circumstances. Therefore, CEHRAWS calls for the immediate investigation, prosecution, and dismissal of any officer(s) found culpable in this illegal operation.
“This must serve as a deterrent to others within the force and reinforce the principles of justice, accountability, and human rights protection.
“Beyond the immediate redress for this incident, CEHRAWS urges the Otti-led administration to take a proactive approach in curbing the rising cases of police misconduct by establishing a Bureau of Human Rights Protection. This specialized committee should be tasked with:
1. Investigating police misconduct and brutality against Abia citizens to ensure officers who violate human rights face justice.
2. Facilitating the prosecution of erring officers to deter future extrajudicial actions.
3. Providing legal support and restitution for victims of unlawful police actions.
“This initiative will not only help restore public confidence in law enforcement but will also align with the Governor’s agenda to create a safe and business-friendly environment in Abia State.
“The state cannot achieve sustainable economic growth if investors and business owners operate in fear of arbitrary attacks and destruction of property by those who are meant to uphold the law.
“CEHRAWS remains committed to advocating for the protection of human rights, the rule of law, and the establishment of a society where justice prevails. We urge the state government and relevant security agencies to ensure that this incident is not swept under the carpet.
“The people of Abia deserve a police force that operates with integrity, accountability, and respect for fundamental human rights.
