The Lagos State Police Command has refuted claims that its officers detained a man, Charles Chiawa, at the request of his wife, Uche Chiawa, for marrying a second wife. Contrary to reports suggesting that Charles was arrested solely for polygamy, the police insist that his detention was due to allegations of domestic violence.

A report by Sahara Reporters had initially alleged that Charles was being held at the Ejigbo Police Station following a complaint by his first wife, Uche, who was reportedly aggrieved over his decision to take another wife. The couple, married for 20 years, allegedly began experiencing marital issues after Charles fathered a child with another woman eight years ago.

Charles argued that his marriage to Uche was conducted under traditional customs, which legally permitted him to take another wife. However, Uche countered this claim, stating that their marriage was also registered under statutory law, giving her legal grounds to challenge his decision.

“I did both court and traditional marriage. I involved the police because he always beats me,” Uche reportedly stated.

Allegations of Police Bias

An anonymous source accused the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ejigbo Police Station, CSP Patience Osuagwu, of allegedly misusing her authority to detain Charles on Uche’s behalf.

“Charles was locked up by his first wife, who accused him of marrying another woman. I was told she has connections with the female DPO at Ejigbo and is using that influence to make him suffer in detention,” the source alleged.

The source also claimed that multiple attempts were made to secure Charles’ release, but Uche allegedly blocked all efforts.

Police Response

Reacting to the controversy, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, dismissed the reports, emphasizing that Charles was arrested for domestic violence, not for taking another wife.

While the situation remains a subject of public debate, the police have maintained that their actions were based on a legitimate complaint of domestic abuse, not marital disputes over polygamy.