The Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi has dismissed a suit filed by Dorcas Adeyinka against the Nigeria Police Force and four others, affirming the authority of law enforcement agencies to declare suspects wanted without first obtaining a court order.
In its ruling, the court held that the police can lawfully declare individuals wanted as part of ongoing criminal investigations, describing the measure as a legitimate tool for seeking public assistance in tracking and arresting suspects.
Adeyinka, a UK-based Nigerian blogger and socialite, had approached the court alleging that her fundamental human rights were violated when she was declared wanted by the police.
The police had earlier issued a special gazette bulletin on May 12, 2024, declaring her wanted over alleged involvement in serious offences, including murder, abduction, cyberstalking, threats to life, and extortion. A reward was also announced for information leading to her arrest.
In the suit filed on May 26, 2025, by her lawyer, Yakubu Eleto, Adeyinka challenged the legality of the police action, arguing that it was unconstitutional.
The case, marked FHC/L/CS/1045/25, listed the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi; Tope Saint Williams Blackamoor; the Commissioner of Police, National Police Cyber Centre; the Nigeria Police Force; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as respondents.
Reports also indicated that Adeyinka was previously detained for 21 days in connection with a related dispute, with her legal team alleging intimidation by authorities.
However, in its judgment, the court dismissed all claims, reinforcing the powers of the police in the course of criminal investigations.
