By Asare Asare

A Cameroonian legislator, Manghe Romeo Etta, has dragged the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) before a Cross River State High Court, alleging unlawful arrest, detention and violation of his fundamental rights.

The youth senator representing Manyu Division in Cameroon’s National Assembly, is seeking N200 million in damages over what he described as his ordeal in Ikom, Cross River State.

According to court filings, the lawmaker said his troubles began after he purchased a BMW X1 from a car dealer in Ikom and duly completed documentation, including registration and transfer of ownership.

Despite presenting the vehicle particulars, Etta alleged that the police impounded the car, branded it stolen and arrested him at the instance of the dealer, Mr Ebi Denis Ebi, and a woman identified as Mengot Gift Achugah.

He claimed he was detained for about 12 hours in poor conditions, during which he became ill, and was compelled to pay N150,000 to secure his release, while his vehicle was towed to the Ikom Divisional Police Station.

Etta said repeated efforts to secure the release of the car failed, despite tendering documents proving lawful ownership.

His lawyer, Armstrong Takim Achu said the suit seeks redress for “clear violations” of his client’s fundamental rights, insisting that the court remains “the last hope of the common man.”

The matter, suit No. HC/146F/2025, is before Justice Theresa Agom of the Cross River State High Court, who adjourned proceedings to February 10, 2026, directing all parties to be present.

Reacting, the Police Public Relations Officer in Cross River State, ASP Sunday Akata, said he was yet to be fully briefed on the case and would respond after receiving details from the Ikom Divisional Police Officer.