LAWYER EJIOFOR DEMANDS RELEASE OF DETAINED NATIVE DOCTOR AKWA OKUKO IN ANAMBRA, CONDEMNS VIOLATION OF FREEDOM OF WORSHIP. (PHOTO).

 

Lawyer Ejiofor Demands Release Of Detained Native Doctor Akwa Okuko In Anambra, Condemns Violation Of Freedom Of Worship. 

Anambra Government’s Arrest of Chief Chidozie Nwangwu: A Violation of Rights and Freedoms

The arrest of Chief Chidozie Nwangwu, known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, by the Anambra State Government has sparked widespread concern. His arrest, which many view as politically motivated, raises troubling questions about the misuse of state power and the suppression of fundamental rights—specifically, the right to freedom of worship and expression.

Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, a respected lawyer, has publicly condemned the arrest, emphasizing that it represents a serious violation of Nwangwu's constitutional rights. Ejiofor, who had previously warned about the potential for misuse of the Agunechemba Security Outfit for political purposes, believes that this arrest confirms his fears.

The circumstances surrounding Nwangwu's detention are troubling. He was reportedly invited by the Deputy Governor of Anambra for a meeting, only to find himself trapped and unjustly detained. The arrest is connected to a video where Nwangwu allegedly spoke about preparing a substance called "Okeite." However, it’s important to note that the video was never shared on his official platforms nor promoted by him.

Despite this, the authorities have moved forward with the arrest, even though there is no clear criminal activity linked to Nwangwu’s actions. Ejiofor argues that the arrest violates several sections of the Nigerian Constitution that guarantee the right to freedom of thought, religion, and expression. These rights, which are fundamental to every citizen, cannot be infringed upon by any government.

Chief Nwangwu is well-known as a traditional doctor with a strong ethical stance. He has been vocal about only offering his services to those engaged in legitimate businesses, distancing himself from individuals seeking help for less-than-honest purposes. For him to be detained over the viral video is, in Ejiofor’s view, an unlawful and unjustifiable action.

There are also growing concerns about the Agunechemba Security Outfit, which was originally created to combat crime in the state. While the outfit was initially praised for its role in curbing criminal activity, there are now fears that it might be used as a tool for political persecution, particularly with the upcoming 2025 Anambra gubernatorial election.

In light of these developments, Barrister Ejiofor is calling for the immediate release of Chief Nwangwu. He insists that the arrest not only violates Nwangwu’s rights but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of freedoms in the state. He further urges the Anambra State Government to ensure that the Agunechemba Security Outfit remains focused on its core mission—fighting crime—rather than being diverted for political purposes.

This situation serves as a stark reminder of the need to protect the basic rights and freedoms that every citizen is entitled to, and that power should never be abused for political gain or personal vendettas. The people of Anambra deserve better, and it is essential that justice prevails.