The Misuse of Justice: Bayelsa’s Approach to Civil Cases
By Aye S O Egberi
It is perplexing and deeply concerning how civil cases in Bayelsa State are often treated with the same severity as criminal cases. In a fair legal system, if someone feels aggrieved by a publication they consider libelous or defamatory, the proper procedure is clear: the affected individual files a lawsuit against the writer or publisher. The court then issues a summons, allowing the accused to defend their statements with evidence. If the court finds the writer guilty, the complainant is awarded damages accordingly.
But in Bayelsa, the process often takes a disturbing turn, especially when government officials are involved. Instead of adhering to the principles of justice, the first course of action seems to involve police harassment, arbitrary arrests, and detention of the accused as if they were hardened criminals. This misuse of power undermines the very foundation of justice and fairness. If this is the treatment meted out to harmless citizens, one shudders to imagine the ordeal real criminals face—or worse, how they evade justice altogether.
Consider the glaring irony: key state-owned assets, such as the Bayelsa Plastic Industry, have been looted. Equipment and even the roofing zincs of the factory have been stolen and sold off, yet no one has been held accountable for these blatant crimes. The government appears powerless—or perhaps unwilling—to bring those responsible to justice. Instead, its energy is focused on silencing critics and intimidating citizens who dare to question its policies or management.
Dr. John Idumange’s arrest exemplifies this troubling trend. His detention is unnecessary and unjustified, as the matter in question is a civil case, not a criminal one. He is not a rapist, a sea pirate, an IPOB member, or a terrorist. If anyone has grievances against him, the appropriate course of action is to file a lawsuit in a competent court, not to resort to intimidation and the trampling of his rights as a citizen.
The arrest of Dr. Idumange sets a dangerous precedent and sends a chilling message to other Bayelsans: criticize the government at your peril. This approach is not only unjust but also counterproductive, as it stifles free speech and erodes public trust in governance.
We must call for a return to due process and respect for the rule of law. Civil cases should be handled as such, and the rights of every citizen, regardless of their opinions or affiliations, must be protected. It is time for Bayelsa to uphold the principles of justice and fairness, not weaponize the legal system against its own people.
FreeDrIdumangeNow✊🏻
Justice demands it.
