Anambra 2025: Governor Soludo Accused Of Using Security Outfit To Silence Political Opponents

Prominent human rights lawyer and legal counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has accused the Anambra State government of using its newly established security outfit, Agunechemba, to target political opponents.

Ejiofor’s accusations stem from the arrest and detention of Chief Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, a traditional healer.

Ejiofor alleges that Nwangwu was lured into a trap by the Deputy Governor, Onyeka Ibezim, who personally invited him for a meeting.

Instead of a routine engagement, the meeting resulted in Nwangwu’s arrest, sparking concerns about a politically motivated crackdown.

The lawyer points to a viral video, allegedly showing Nwangwu discussing a substance called “Okeite,” as the apparent reason for his arrest.

However, Ejiofor contests that the video wasn’t released or promoted by Nwangwu himself. Even if the video’s contents are true,

Ejiofor argues, they don’t constitute a crime, violating Nwangwu’s constitutional rights to freedom of speech and religion.

Ejiofor cited Sections 38, 39, and 40 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, emphasizing the guaranteed rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression.

He described Nwangwu’s detention as a blatant violation of these fundamental rights.

Ejiofor described Akwa Okuko as a successful traditional doctor who, contrary to some reports, actively discourages those without legitimate means from seeking his services.

He insisted that the arrest, if linked to the video, constitutes an unlawful detention and a gross abuse of power.

While initially praising Agunechemba for addressing criminal activity in Anambra State, Ejiofor now warns against its misuse for political purposes.

He expressed concern that with the 2025 gubernatorial elections approaching, the security outfit is being diverted from its primary mandate to silence political opponents.

He issued a strong warning that any such attempts will be met with resistance from Anambrarians.

Ejiofor’s statement concludes with a call for the immediate and unconditional release of Chief Chidozie Nwangwu and a plea for the Anambra State government to refrain from using Agunechemba for political witch-hunts.

He urges the government to allow wise counsel to prevail and prioritize the security outfit’s original mandate of combating crime. The Anambra State government has yet to respond to these accusations.