Nigerian Police Assault and Detain Nation Association of Seadogs Member in Edo State

Efosa Sulaiman Lawani, a member of the Nation Association of Seadogs, was assaulted and detained by Nigerian police in Edo State while en route to Enugu. Lawani, who was traveling from Benin City to attend the 2026 Ralph Opara Memorial Lecture, was allegedly physically assaulted and intimidated by police officers at a checkpoint.

The assault occurred after Lawani refused to pay money demanded by the officers when they found branded souvenirs in his possession. Lawani sustained injuries during the incident and was denied access to medical care while in police custody.

The Nigerian Bar Association President, Afam Osigw, condemned the assault and called for a transparent investigation. The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, intervened in the matter and took action against six police officers involved in extorting money from Lawani.

The incident has raised concerns about human rights violations and police misconduct in Edo State.