Lagos Police Detain Lawyer, Strip Him, Beat Him In Custody For Seeking Client’s Bail

A Lagos-based lawyer, Olumide Sonupe, has been hospitalised after allegedly being detained for two nights at the Moshalashi Police Station while seeking bail for his client.

According to reports, the 36-year-old Olumide was rushed to the hospital on January 1st when his health deteriorated upon release from custody. He had been held in the cell with his client, a carpenter, over a breach of contract dispute since December 30th.

Olumide claims he was manhandled and forcibly stripped before being thrown in the cell for insisting the matter was civil rather than criminal. CCTV footage is said to show police officers dragging him to the cells while removing his clothes.

The lawyer alleges Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Austin Arase attempted to slap him for “disrespecting officers” while a female officer poked his chest and threatened assault before his detention.

Olumide was reportedly made to rewrite his statement to include claims of attacking the DPO – accusations he denies. His release was also allegedly delayed even after securing a surety.

The Lagos police command has confirmed Olumide’s detention but accused him of acting “without decorum”. The state bar association is said to be investigating the matter.

Olumide remains hospitalised from injuries sustained during the ordeal. Rights groups have condemned the alleged abuse of power and violation of his legal rights by the officers involved.