By Chinonso Alozie
Owerri – The Counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, on Saturday called on the government of Anambra state to charge to court some persons, Ejiofor alleged were arrested for the past five weeks in the state.
Ejiofor spoke in a statement to newsmen in Owerri while commenting on what he tagged as “violations of citizens rights.”
According to him, “Today March 15, 2025, marks five full weeks since several citizens of Anambra State were arbitrarily arrested and detained in a private facility controlled by the state government. Shockingly, they have not been charged with any offence or brought before any court of law. This is a flagrant violation of their fundamental rights.
“More disturbing is the fact that these individuals were not placed under the custody of the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), or even the military for investigation. Instead, they have remained unlawfully detained without any formal explanation from the state government. Regrettably, some misguided individuals are applauding this clear infraction of the law.
“For five weeks, the Anambra State Government has failed to provide any official briefing or statement to the public on the status of these detainees. This lack of transparency is unacceptable. We are often quick to criticize the Federal Government or its agencies for abuse of power, including enforced disappearances and illegal detentions. Yet, here we are, witnessing similar acts at the state level.
“Security is a collective responsibility. I have always championed active citizen participation in combating insecurity by providing credible intelligence to security agencies. It is on record that I was among the fearless voices that condemned the heinous activities of criminals masquerading as agitators when they were wrecking havoc and unleashing terror on our people. At the height of these atrocities, I publicly urged Governor Soludo to deploy all legal means to decisively tackle these elements. I emphasized that they were not genuine agitators but criminals who should be treated as such.
“At that time, many who now attack those speaking the truth were too weak and afraid to voice their opinions. I, on the other hand, put my life, my family, and my staff at risk by standing against these criminals. I am fully aware that intelligence reports indicated several plots to eliminate me, yet I remained steadfast, trusting in God’s protection.”
It was his view that; “That being said, I want to make my position crystal clear: I, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, will never support anyone proven to be aiding or abetting criminal activities in our land. If there is verifiable evidence implicating or linking any individual to the commision of any crime, the law must take its course.”
Ejiofor recalled that; “I have previously commended the Anambra State Government’s Agụnechemba security outfit for its efforts in restoring order. The security outfit has done well, in restoring some level of security in the state, and the Soludo administration deserves credit for its achievements. However, I have always stressed the need for professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement by security agents, to minimize casualties and avoid unnecessary errors.”
“For those misconstruing my stance, let me make it clear- I am not attacking the state government. I have consistently spoken out against infractions by the Federal Government and its agencies, and I will not hesitate to do the same when our own state government errs. Political affiliations or fear of the unknown should not prevent us from speaking truth to power. I admire Governor Soludo’s vision and commend his efforts, but respect for the rule of law must remain non-negotiable,” he concluded.
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