Ex-Ondo Lawmaker Sues Police Over Alleged Unlawful Arrest

Ayodeji Arowel, a former member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, has initiated legal action against the Inspector General of Police, alleging unlawful arrest shortly before the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries scheduled for May 16, 2026. Arowel claims that his arrest violated fundamental human rights as guaranteed under sections 36, 42, and 46 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

He is seeking N50 million in damages for what he describes as an unlawful arrest. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal High Court, names the Inspector General of Police and several officers, including CSP Hilari Mazi and Mr.

Yusuf Sanya Isiaka, as defendants. Arowel alleges that police officers invaded his hotel room in a "Gestapo manner" without a warrant, leading to his arrest and subsequent rough handling.

He further claims that this action infringed on his rights to privacy, liberty, and human dignity. Arowel also seeks a court order to restrain the police from further harassment and arrest related to this matter.