By Emmanuel Thomas l Thursday, Oct. 08, 2026
AWKA — A routine court-ordered execution of a possession warrant turned violent in Awka, the Anambra State capital, following an alleged assault on judicial staff by officers attached to the “B” Division of the Nigeria Police Force.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has sparked widespread outrage, with former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Chidi Odinkalu, demanding immediate disciplinary action against the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the station.
According to details shared by Odinkalu, a judicial execution team led by Franklyn Ifeanyi Onwuasoanya had arrived at the designated premises in Awka to enforce a valid Warrant of Possession issued by the Anambra State Chief Magistrates Court.
Trouble started while the bailiffs were in the middle of executing the order when an individual claiming to be the DPO of “B” Division arrived at the scene. The police officer reportedly commanded the judicial officers to immediately halt the execution and vacate the property.
Citing the absence of any contrary order from a superior court, Onwuasoanya refused to comply with the officer’s directive, maintaining that the team was carrying out a lawful judicial duty.
The situation escalated rapidly after the police officer reportedly summoned reinforcement to the site.
Upon arrival, the backup team allegedly launched a physical attack on the bailiffs. The officers reportedly tore the clothes of the court staff and attempted to forcibly confiscate the court warrant through violence. The physical altercation prompted one of the victims to record the encounter on video.
Reacting to the incident, Odinkalu called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to rein in his officers and ensure the DPO is held accountable for overstepping his constitutional authority and acting as a “summary Court of Appeal.”
Odinkalu further raised concerns about potential retaliation by law enforcement for bringing the incident to light, referencing recent attempts to target critics and human rights advocates under the Cybercrimes Act.
As of press time, the Anambra State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the conduct of the DPO or the alleged assault on the judicial officials.