By Paul Nyambi
I have seen Facebook posts announcing the death of CSP EKene Nwosu, a popular Police Officer at the State CID, Uyo (Mostly uncomplimentary comments).
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I had my encounters with Supol Ekene Nwosu.
My first encounter with the deceased Cop was in 2016. My client was arrested and detained in connection with a vehicle that was stolen at a hotel in Uyo.
I was briefed by a vlunteer to represent the indigent client over his unlawful detention which matter was being handled by a unit headed by the deceased Cop.
The suspect had been detained for 9 days already.
In my usual calm approach, I went to solicit for bail of the suspect having brought a Surety as required by Law.
Investigation was ongoing and the team headed by Supol Ekene requested for 2 days to conclude their investigation. I was shown a CCTV footage of the disguised thief using a handkerchief so I reluctantly conceded to their request because I was also eager to have the matter properly investigated and the thieves unraveled.
Unfortunately, 2 days after, I went to the State CID but the Supol Ekene refused to give me audience which left me with no other option but to make a formal application for bail to the State Commissioner of Police as well as raising a complaint against police action and alleging unlawful detention of my client, breach of his fundamental right to personal liberty over an offence that is ordinarily bailable.
The Commissioner of Police immediately acted on my application and forwarded to Ekene to release my client forthwith.
Ekene was angry at the step I took but he didn’t have a choice than to comply with the CP’s Order.
That encounter made him understand the kind of Lawyer I am and my values as an activist Lawyer which made us become friends.
There were many other incidents which were resolved through a short text message or a visit to his office as he didn’t want my wahala.
Before his sudden death, Ekene had turned a new life.
In 2024, our office represented a Complainant over a matter being handled by the deceased Cop. He showed professionalism in the way and manner he investigated the matter.
Lawyers played a role in changing Ekene’s style of policing.
I am pained by the death of the young Officer.
My opinion is based on his behaviour at the end, not in the beginning. Let me also mention that despite his short comings, Ekene got a lot of results as a dedicated Cop at the State CID, Uyo.
I do hope that other Cops will learn their lessons from the social media commentary being made following the death of the Cop.
Rest in peace, my friend, Supol Ekene.
Paul Nyambi, Esq.,
Principal Partner at PAN Street Solicitors (Legal Practitioners & Consultants)
