The Nembe Division of the Bayelsa High Court has directed the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to appear before it within 42 days in connection with a N649 million accommodation debt lawsuit.
This directive, issued on Wednesday, also applies to the Nigerian Police Force and the Police Service Commission, who are co-respondents in the case.
The order was handed down by Justice T.Y. Abasi in response to a suit filed by Mr. Darius Obienem, the owner of Euphemie Motel in Opu-Nembe, Bayelsa State.
Obienem alleges that the respondents failed to settle a significant accommodation debt incurred by the Police Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, which was deployed to the community from August 12, 2023, to October 3, 2024.
According to the complaint, the SWAT team occupied the motel without prior authorization, effectively transforming it into their operational base.
Despite repeated attempts by the motel owner to seek compensation for the unauthorized use of the property, the police reportedly failed to make any payments, leading to the legal action.
Justice Abasi emphasized that the failure of the IGP or the other respondents to appear in court, either personally or through legal representation, within the stipulated 42-day period would result in a judgment being delivered in their absence.
The lawsuit highlights growing concerns about accountability within the police force and the implications of operational excesses on private citizens and businesses.
The case has drawn significant attention in Bayelsa State, with observers closely monitoring the outcome as it underscores broader issues of institutional responsibility and respect for the rule of law.
