Amid growing public concern over the impartiality of law enforcement agents in high-profile cases, calls have emerged for a fair hearing in the ongoing legal tussle involving David Nwokorie and Genevieve Okpara, daughter of retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Hilary Okpara.
Nwokorie was arrested last week by operatives of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) following a petition by Genevieve, who accused him of cyberstalking, blackmail, and threats to life. The petition, sources said, stemmed from a failed relationship between the two parties and a subsequent dispute over a joint project and personal grievances.
According to Nwokorie’s legal counsel, Barrister Ezike Chibuzor, the arrest followed a series of events that began when David discovered Genevieve had withheld information about her previous marriage and children from him.
Tensions further escalated in January when after learning that David had proposed to another woman, Genevieve allegedly visited his home and damaged household property.
In an apparent move to press his claims, David published a flier bearing Genevieve’s photograph and labelling her as “wanted” for property damage. Genevieve, in response, lodged a formal complaint with the police, leading to his arrest.
While police authorities have secured a 14-day remand order as investigations continued, David’s family insisted that retired DIG Hilary Okpara was leveraging his influence to keep their son detained — an allegation that has drawn public scrutiny.
“We are worried that a private dispute is being turned into a criminal matter simply because of connections,” a family member told LEADERSHIP. “We are not saying the matter should be ignored — we are only asking that justice be served fairly and without undue influence.”
The matter has since been filed in court, with both parties expected to present their evidence. However, beyond the legal technicalities, human rights advocates were calling for caution.
“While the police have a duty to investigate allegations, it is important that no party is unduly punished before a court determines guilt,” said a lawyer familiar with the case, who preferred anonymity. “This is not just about one person’s reputation — it is about trust in the justice system.”
Genevieve, when contacted, confirmed David’s arrest and maintained that the case was being handled within the bounds of the law.
As the case proceeds, stakeholders have emphasized the need for objectivity, restraint, and a fair judicial process to allow both parties resolve their differences lawfully and respectfully.
“Personal relationships sometimes end bitterly, but the justice system must not be weaponized,” Barrister Chibuzor said. “We urge the authorities to give David a fair opportunity to defend himself — not just in court, but in the court of public opinion as well.”
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