Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) has commended the Edo State Ministry of Justice, through the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP), for its legal review that led to the release of over 100 individuals wrongly accused of cultism, murder, drug offences, and conspiracy.
This development validates EDOCSO’s long-standing position that many citizens are victims of wrongful arrests, extortion, and detention without thorough investigation. Today, those individuals have reunited with their families, a welcome step towards restoring faith in the justice system.
EDOCSO condemned the recurring failure of the police to conduct proper investigations before charging suspects to court. The organisation described this practice as “lazy and wicked policing” and urged the Edo State Police Command to uphold international best practices, respect citizens’ rights, and gather credible evidence before filing charges.
“The importance of thorough investigation and intelligence gathering cannot be overemphasised,” EDOCSO stated. “Wrongful arrests not only traumatise victims and their families but erode public trust in security agencies.”
EDOCSO lauded its advocacy’s role in improving Edo State’s criminal justice system and pledged to continue promoting justice, peace, and development.
The group also called on the Ministry of Justice, under Commissioner Dr. Samson Osagie, to establish a case-filtering mechanism through the DPP for all capital offences before suspects are charged, amended, or discharged. This, EDOCSO said, will prevent future cases of malicious prosecution.
EDOCSO further urged the police to:
1. Conduct thorough investigations before prosecuting suspects.
2. Respect citizens’ rights and due process.
3. Avoid extortion, intimidation, and unlawful arrests.
4. Ensure transparency and accountability in their operations.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, human rights, and holding security agencies accountable. It pledged to continue working with the government and security agencies to ensure Edo remains safe, just, and progressive.
“The release of these innocent citizens is a victory for justice. The police must learn from this, improve their processes, and prioritise the protection of innocent lives,” EDOCSO concluded.
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