In a dramatic turn of events, journalist Chinonso Uba, popularly known as Nonso Nkwa, has once again been arrested by the Imo State Police for allegedly engaging in cyberstalking, defamation, and spreading misinformation related to a recent attack on the National Open University’s study centre in Nsu, Ehime Mbano Council Area.
The arrest, which occurred on Sunday evening, was confirmed by the police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, in a statement on Monday. According to Okoye, Uba’s detention follows a petition from a “concerned citizen” regarding viral videos the journalist allegedly shared on social media. The police claim that the videos contain inflammatory statements, which they believe are linked to the attack by unknown gunmen on the university facility.
Uba, who is also the founder of Protect the Weak International Foundation, a human rights organization based in Imo State, is accused of inciting civil unrest through his social media activities. The videos, according to the police, contain defamatory remarks and misinformation targeting specific individuals and authorities in the state.
Contrary to earlier reports that suggested Uba might have been abducted by unknown persons, Okoye clarified that the journalist is currently in police custody at the State Police Headquarters. He assured the public that Uba would be arraigned in court after a thorough investigation into the allegations is completed.
“The Command clarifies that he was not abducted. Nonso Nkwa is currently detained at the State Headquarters and will be arraigned in court with appropriate charges once the investigation is completed,” Okoye said. He also reiterated the police’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring peace in Imo State, stressing that those responsible for the university attack will face prosecution.
This is not the first time Chinonso Uba has had a run-in with the authorities. In July 2023, the journalist was arrested shortly after finishing his morning radio program at Ozisa FM, Owerri, where he was accused of defaming Governor Hope Uzodinma. He was later released following a court order.
The latest arrest comes amid heightened concerns over the rising tension in Imo State, particularly following the attack on the National Open University study centre and the residence of Nigerian senator Frank Ibezim. The police have vowed to leave no stone unturned in their investigation into the incidents.
