February 27, 2026 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
A family in Abuja has cried out for urgent intervention after alleging that the Nigeria Police Force has refused to comply with a valid court order directing the release of a civil servant who has been held in detention for more than four months over a land transaction dispute.
The detainee, Idris Shuaibu, an official with the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS), is currently being held by officers attached to the IGP Special Investigation Unit (SIU) in Area 11, Abuja, despite meeting bail conditions granted by the Federal High Court.
Family Alleges “Debt Recovery” Detention
According to a petition submitted to the Inspector-General of Police and dated November 28, 2025, Shuaibu’s legal team described his detention as unlawful and accused police officers of turning a civil land dispute into a criminal matter to force repayment of money.
The dispute reportedly involves a ₦31 million land transaction linked to a deceased colleague, Alhaji Salifu Muktar. Lawyers said Shuaibu was only involved in processing land documentation and had passed part of the funds to the late colleague before his death in April 2025.
Following the colleague’s death, the complainant allegedly demanded a refund after claiming the land had been reallocated.
Multiple Arrests, Alleged Extortion
Documents reviewed by SUNTV Global Channel indicate that Shuaibu has faced repeated arrests since May 2025.
His legal team alleged that:
- He was first detained in May 2025 and allegedly forced to pay ₦2 million under pressure before release.
- He was arrested again in June and held for six days until he signed an undertaking to repay the balance.
- In September, he reportedly paid another ₦2.5 million into a police exhibit account before being re-arrested.
- Since November 13, 2025, he has remained in custody without being formally charged in court.
The petition also alleged that his house documents were seized, his property marked “under police investigation,” and family members denied access to him.
Court Granted Bail — Police Yet To Comply
In response to the prolonged detention, Shuaibu’s lawyers filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
On January 26, 2026, the court granted him bail of ₦5 million with two sureties and ordered his release pending the hearing of the case.
Family members confirmed that all bail conditions were fulfilled and that the court order was served on police authorities on January 30. However, they claim the police have refused to release him.
Threats, Health Concerns Raised
Shuaibu’s brother, Shaibu Yusufu, told SUNTV Global Channel that the family fears for his safety, alleging threats from both the complainant and investigating officers.
He also disclosed that the detained civil servant suffers from a chronic ulcer, raising concerns about his deteriorating health in custody.
Alleged Constitutional Violations
The petition accused the police of violating several constitutional provisions, including rights to dignity, personal liberty, and access to legal counsel.
Shuaibu’s legal team further argued that the police have no legal mandate to act as debt recovery agents in civil disputes.
Family Appeals For Intervention
Despite petitions sent to the Minister of Police Affairs and the Police Service Commission, the family said no action has been taken.
They are now demanding:
- Immediate and unconditional release of Idris Shuaibu
- Independent investigation into officers involved
- Enforcement of the court’s directive
The case has intensified public concern about alleged abuse of police powers and disregard for court orders in civil disputes across Nigeria.
