Justice Samira Bature of the FCT High Court in Maitama has ordered the immediate arrest of Edith Erhunmuuse, a police officer accused of dodging her arraignment. All law enforcement bodies nationwide are now authorized to apprehend the officer on sight.
This ruling followed a motion by prosecutor Aderonke Imana. Erhunmuuse faces charges alongside Cecil Osakwe and Victor Giwa for their alleged roles in a forceful eviction that resulted in the destruction of property worth roughly N300 million. While the other defendants have maintained their court appearances, Erhunmuuse has been absent for over a year despite previous bench warrants and direct orders from the Inspector-General of Police.
During the proceedings, Imana emphasized that the defendant has consistently disregarded court mandates. Counsel for the other defendants noted that settlement talks remain active, but Justice Bature rejected further delays, citing the court’s upcoming vacation. The judge stated that the arrest warrant serves as a response to the officer’s blatant defiance of judicial authority. The trial is set to resume on September 29, with the court stressing that no additional excuses for absence will be tolerated.
