By Pedro Ayobami
Kindly share this news
The continued detention of Frederick Nwajagu, a Lagos-based Igbo chief, has sparked concerns among human rights activists and Igbo socio-cultural organizations. Nwajagu was arrested in April 2023 for reacting to threats made by some Lagos youths against Igbo people living in Lagos. He had stated that he may be forced to bring the separatist group, IPOB, to Lagos to protect Ndigbo.
Okechukwu Nwanguma, a human rights activist, has condemned Nwajagu’s detention, stating that it is unjust to leave him languishing in prison for nearly two years while those who made the initial threats remain free. Nwanguma has called on Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, to intervene in Nwajagu’s detention and advocate for the Lagos State Government to drop all charges against him.
Nwanguma’s call for Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s intervention is not the first time the organization has been urged to take action on Nwajagu’s behalf. In an Easter message, Ohanaeze Ndigbo had charged the people of Southeast not to leave Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, Lagos, Fredrick Nwajagu, to his fate.
The detention of Frederick Nwajagu has highlighted concerns about the discriminatory application of the law driven by ethnic bias. Nwanguma has emphasized the need for Ohanaeze Ndigbo to intervene and advocate for Nwajagu’s release, stating that the organization’s voice can be a powerful instrument in ensuring fairness and representation for all members of the Igbo community.
As the detention of Frederick Nwajagu continues, it remains to be seen whether Ohanaeze Ndigbo will heed the call to intervene and advocate for his release. The situation has sparked concerns about the need for greater protection and representation for Igbo people living in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria.
Kindly share this news!!!