Patrick, a Nigerian man who spent three years behind bars after being wrongfully detained, has finally been released following a court ruling.
According to reports from Hope Behind Bars, a justice reform organization, Patrick was arrested in January 2021 during a routine police stop and search operation while travelling to Ebonyi State. The arrest took place at a checkpoint in Okada, Edo State, where police officers claimed to have found a locally made gun in the possession of one of the passengers in the vehicle Patrick was travelling in.
Despite everyone else arrested in the vehicle being released after paying bail, Patrick remained in detention as he could not afford the bail fee at the time.
In a statement released by Hope Behind Bars, it was revealed that Patrick consistently maintained his innocence, stating that he never owned a gun and had no knowledge of any firearm allegedly found. Despite this, he spent two years behind bars without being charged before any court or provided with legal representation for his defence.
The case faced multiple setbacks as the investigating police officer (IPO) in charge failed to produce the alleged gun or appear for cross-examination. The prosecution also repeatedly failed to appear in court, leading to numerous adjournments.
During the trial, when asked to present the alleged gun recovered during the arrest, the IPO claimed it was with an Exhibit Keeper, yet it was never presented to the court, and the IPO failed to appear for cross-examination.
When Patrick finally had the opportunity to testify in court, he emphasized that the alleged gun was not recovered from him and was never shown to him.
Legal representatives argued that statements made by the complainant, who did not testify in court, were hearsay and should be expunged from the record. They also highlighted the lack of substantial evidence against Patrick and urged the court to grant him freedom.
Ultimately, the court ruled in favour of Patrick, and he was released after evidence showed he had no involvement with the local gun discovered in the vehicle.
Patrick’s case sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals caught up in the criminal justice system and underscores the importance of fair trials and access to legal representation.
