Imo NUJ Condemns Continued Detention Of Radio Presenter, Demands Immediate Action

Owerri, Imo State  – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Imo State Council has expressed deep concern over the arrest and detention of radio presenter and activist, Mr. Chononso Uba, known as Nonsonkwa, by the Imo State Police Command.

According to the NUJ, Nonsonkwa was arrested on October 20, 2024, following a petition alleging cyberstalking, character defamation, spreading misinformation, and inciting civil unrest.

The petition, signed by an unnamed group called “Concerned Citizens,” accused Nonsonkwa of making inflammatory statements related to the burning of the National Open University (NOUN) Study Center in Nsu, Ehime Mbano LGA on September 30, 2024.

While the police command has clarified that Nonsonkwa was not abducted, as previously reported, he remains in detention at the State Police Headquarters.

The command has stated that he will be arraigned in court with appropriate charges once a “comprehensive investigation” is completed.

The NUJ, however, insists that Nonsonkwa’s detention beyond 48 hours without being charged to court is a violation of his legal rights.

The union has urged the Imo State Police Command to either charge Nonsonkwa to court immediately or release him on bail without further delay.

“We urge the Imo Police Command to be more professional in the handling of this affair and avoid anything that may portray the Police as seeking to repress divergent opinions from the civil populace,” said Comrade Precious Nwadike, Chairman of the Imo State NUJ.

The NUJ’s statement comes amidst growing concerns over freedom of expression and the role of the media in Imo State.

The union has called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the allegations against Nonsonkwa, while also stressing the need for the police to respect the rights of all citizens.