Popular broadcaster and activist Chinonso Ubah has called on the Imo State government to either arraign or release detained former Commissioner for Foreign Affairs, Chief Fabian Ihekweme, who has been held in police custody without trial since November 2024.
Ihekweme, popularly known as Omu, was arrested in Abuja by operatives of the Tiger Base Unit of the Imo State Police Command and transferred to Owerri. However, despite being in detention for over two months, he has not been formally charged in court, sparking public outrage and concerns over human rights violations.
In a viral video that surfaced on January 24, Ubah condemned Ihekweme’s prolonged detention, stating that it blatantly violates his constitutional right, which mandates that suspects be charged within 48 hours of arrest.
“The continued detention of Omu without trial is illegal and an abuse of his fundamental rights,” Ubah asserted. “The government should either take him to court or release him immediately.”
Call for Justice
Ubah further warned that suppressing free speech and intimidating outspoken individuals would not silence the people of Imo State. He urged the Human Rights Commission and other relevant bodies to intervene and ensure that due process is followed.
“The court is the only institution that can determine whether he should remain in custody or not,” Ubah emphasized. “The government must respect the rule of law and stop trampling on citizens’ rights.”
Ihekweme’s arrest remains controversial, with speculations that his detention may be politically motivated. While state authorities have remained silent on the matter, human rights advocates insist that justice must be served.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the Imo State government to see whether it will heed the growing calls for transparency and justice in the case.
