By: Daure David
A Rivers State High Court has issued an injunction restraining the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Department of State Services (DSS) from arresting Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, pending the determination of a suit filed by Ehie.
The legal action, which was filed by Ehie’s counsel, seeks to prevent any unlawful arrest or detention of the Chief of Staff by the police or DSS. The court ruling, delivered earlier this week, came as a significant relief to Ehie, who has been under intense scrutiny by security agencies in recent weeks.
The injunction, issued by a Justice, was a result of a motion for an interim order sought by Ehie’s legal team. The court directed that the police and DSS must refrain from taking any action to arrest or harass Ehie until the matter is fully heard and determined. The ruling also mandates that the respondents – the police and DSS – appear before the court on a later date to show cause as to why the injunction should not be made permanent.
In a statement following the court ruling, Ehie’s legal team expressed confidence that justice would prevail, emphasizing that the Chief of Staff had been subjected to unwarranted pressure despite his constitutional rights.
“This ruling is a victory for the rule of law,” said one of Ehie’s attorneys. “It is a clear indication that no one is above the law, but at the same time, individuals are entitled to fair treatment and protection from arbitrary actions.”
The arrest threats against Ehie have been linked to ongoing political tensions in Rivers State. Sources indicate that the issues surrounding the arrest are tied to alleged political motivations. However, the specifics of the charges or accusations against Ehie remain unclear at this time.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, through his spokesperson, has publicly stated his support for Ehie, describing him as a loyal public servant. “The Governor believes in upholding the rule of law and fairness. The attempt to arrest his Chief of Staff is politically motivated and unjustified,” the spokesperson added.
As the legal battle continues, many political observers in Rivers State are closely monitoring the developments, particularly regarding the potential implications for the state’s political climate. It remains to be seen whether the matter will escalate further or if a resolution can be reached in the coming weeks.
The case has also drawn attention to broader concerns over the potential misuse of state power by security agencies, as well as the ongoing tension between federal and state authorities in various regions of Nigeria.
The Rivers State High Court is expected to reconvene in the coming days to hear arguments from both sides before making a final determination on the matter.
