A prominent Nigerian human rights activist, Okechukwu Nwanguma, has called on the Igbo socio-political group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to fight for the release of Frederick Nwajagu, the detained Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate.
Nwajagu has been in custody since April 2023, following his arrest for threatening to invite members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to Lagos.
He claimed the move was to protect Igbo properties and businesses from attacks in the state.
Arrest and Charges
Nwajagu was arrested on April 1, 2023, after a 49-second video of his controversial statement went viral.
In the video, the 67-year-old said, “IPOB, we will invite them. They have no job. All of the IPOB will protect all of our shops. And we have to pay them. We have to mobilize for that.”
He further declared, “We must have our security so that they will stop attacking us at midnight, in the morning, and in the afternoon. Let my words go viral. Igbo must get their rights and get a stand in Lagos State.”
The Lagos State Government swiftly acted on the video, accusing Nwajagu of attempting acts of terrorism.
He was arraigned on nine charges, including participation in terrorism, attempt to finance terrorism, and supporting a proscribed entity.
Legal Proceedings
The case was brought before Justice Yetunde Adesanya of the Lagos State High Court by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice.
The Deputy Director of the Ministry, Jonathan Ogunsanya, represented Attorney General Moyosore Onigbanjo during the proceedings.
Ogunsanya stated that Nwajagu’s actions violated several provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Despite the weighty accusations, Nwajagu pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to him.
The court adjourned his trial until July 4, 2023, but nearly two years later, the case remains unresolved.
Calls for Justice
In a statement on Sunday, Nwanguma condemned Nwajagu’s prolonged detention, labeling it unjust and discriminatory.
He expressed concern over what he called an “ethnically biased” application of the law.
“It is deeply concerning that those who made the initial threats, which Mr. Nwajagu responded to, have not faced legal consequences, while he has been left to languish in prison,” Nwanguma said.
The activist urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo to advocate for Nwajagu’s release and ensure fairness for all citizens, regardless of ethnicity.
“It is imperative that Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands for justice and equality,” he said.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Role
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as a socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, has long been a voice for unity and justice in Nigeria.
Nwanguma believes the group’s involvement could amplify calls for Nwajagu’s freedom and highlight the perceived unfair treatment of Igbo citizens in Lagos.
“The voice of Ohanaeze can be a powerful instrument in ensuring fairness and representation for all members of the Igbo community,” he added.
A Case Rooted in Controversy
Nwajagu’s case has reignited debates about ethnic tensions and political freedoms in Nigeria.
His initial remarks followed reports of attacks and harassment targeting Igbo businesses in Lagos.
Supporters of Nwajagu argue that his comments were a cry for protection rather than a call to violence.
However, critics say inviting IPOB, a group declared a terrorist organization, was reckless and undermines national security.
