Hotelier Petitions NHRC Over NDLEA Invasion

A Lagos-based hotelier, Mr. Ayobami Moses Idowu, has petitioned the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), alleging unlawful invasion of his property, destruction and the theft of his gold necklace worth N50 million by officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Idowu’s legal representatives, Complete Solicitors and Advocates, based in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State, submitted the petition titled: “Unlawful Invasion of Mr. Ayobami Moses Idowu’s Residence and Business Premises by NDLEA Officers,” urging the commission to ensure justice for their client.

The petition outlined Idowu’s standing as a law-abiding Nigerian, employer, and community role model, emphasising his decade-long business operations managing D&G Motor Dealer Enterprises Limited and D&G Hotel, Event and Suites.

His counsel stated that despite his clean record, the petition highlighted repeated harassment by NDLEA officers, particularly under the leadership of ACN Adekunle Oduola, alleging coercion for monetary gain through threats and invasive tactics.

Responding to the allegation, the NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi said “The raid on the hotel was duly authorised because the owner is a wanted suspect.”

The petition indicated instances of prior arrests without incriminating evidence, culminating in the recent invasion of Idowu’s property on February 29, 2024.

According to the petition,”over forty NDLEA officers allegedly stormed his premises, ransacking his home and subsequently his hotel on Clem Road, Ijaiye Ojokoro, causing chaos and financial losses.

“Following the invasion, Idowu’s hotel suffered reputational damage, loss of clientele, and financial strain, jeopardising his ability to meet business obligations and potentially leading to job losses for over thirty employees.

“In light of these injustices, Idowu’s legal team called upon the National Human Rights Commission to investigate and safeguard their client’s fundamental rights, urging intervention to rectify the damages inflicted by NDLEA actions.” The petition reads.