Lagos police rearrest popular TikToker Seaking at Magistrate Court despite his bail, then transfer him to Abuja, sparking legal and public outcry.
Moments after his court appearance, officers took him into custody and swiftly transported him to Abuja. Legal experts are calling the move a blatant violation of due process.
Arrest and court proceedings
Seaking was first arrested on December 20, 2024, and appeared in court for a remand hearing on December 23. The police requested a 30-day detention, but the Magistrate denied their plea. Instead, the court granted him bail and ordered the police to forward the case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal review.
Despite the court’s ruling, the prosecution failed to appear at a scheduled hearing on January 16, 2025. The absence led to an adjournment. When proceedings resumed on February 6, a police prosecutor requested more time to comply with the court’s instructions. The Magistrate set a seven-day deadline and adjourned the case until March 25.
Sudden rearrest sparks outrage
Shortly after the hearing, police officers rearrested Seaking within the court premises. He was first taken to the Lagos State Police Command in Ikeja. From there, officers moved him to Murtala Muhammed Airport, where they flew him to Abuja.
The unexpected development has sparked backlash from legal experts and human rights activists. Inibehe Effiong, a prominent lawyer representing Seaking, strongly condemned the police action.
“This is nothing short of an outrageous abuse of power. The police initiated legal proceedings in Lagos, yet they have taken the law into their own hands by rearresting a man who is out on bail,” Effiong stated.
He called on Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to intervene and order Seaking’s immediate release.
Legal experts decry police actions
Many legal analysts argue that this incident highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s disregard for court rulings and judicial processes. Some say that such actions erode public trust in the legal system and raise concerns about lawlessness within law enforcement agencies.
“This is not just about one individual,” said legal analyst Gbenga Adebayo. “It sets a dangerous precedent where the police can simply ignore court rulings and act as they please. If the courts are undermined, then justice is at risk.”
Public reaction and next steps
The case has drawn widespread attention, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express their outrage. Activists have warned that if unchecked, this could encourage further abuses of power by security agencies.
All eyes are now on the Inspector General of Police and the judiciary. How they respond to this case could determine the future of judicial independence in Nigeria.
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