John Fashanu Sues Nigerian Police for ₦200 Million Over Wrongful Arrest
John Fashanu, a former England striker, is suing the Nigerian Police for ₦200 million, alleging wrongful arrest amid a land dispute. Arrested for accusations including intimidation and trespass, Fashanu claims the incident has harmed his coaching ambitions with the Super Eagles. The case has been adjourned to April 10 for further proceedings, while Fashanu maintains his innocence.
Former England striker John Fashanu is suing the Nigerian Police Force for ₦200 million, alleging wrongful arrest following a land dispute. He was arrested in Abuja amid accusations of criminal conspiracy, intimidation, and obtaining by false presence. Currently on bail, the dispute reportedly centers around foreign investors proposing to pay Fashanu over £500,000 for a 22-acre land site that he claimed was unlawfully encroached upon.
The conflict escalated when Fashanu discovered workmen erecting a perimeter fence on the disputed land. Upon investigating with his lawyer, both were arrested after voluntarily agreeing to visit a police station for resolution. A hearing in Abuja’s Federal High Court was recently held, with the case adjourned until April 10 for defendants to file counter affidavits, as noted by Fashanu’s lawyer, Chinyere Chigbu.
Fashanu, age 62, maintains his innocence and alongside his wife and lawyer, seeks judicial redress, asserting that the incident has left him traumatized and hindered his aspirations for a coaching position with the Super Eagles. He has named 12 defendants in his suit, including the Nigeria Police, the Inspector General of Police, and the Police Service Commission.
Born in England to a Nigerian father and a British Guiana mother, Fashanu played only briefly for the England national team, making two appearances. He had a lengthy career in English football, representing clubs such as Norwich City, Crystal Palace, and Aston Villa before retiring in 1995. Since then, he has pursued a career in media.
John Fashanu’s lawsuit against the Nigerian Police underscores issues of wrongful arrests and their repercussions on career aspirations. Following a complex land dispute that led to his arrest, Fashanu is seeking significant compensation based on claims of trauma and career disruption. His case raises critical questions about legal procedures and the treatment of individuals in similar situations, particularly in relation to high-profile figures.
Original Source: soccernet.ng
