Probe Threat Allegations Against Emeka Offor; HURIWA Tells AGF
Oru Leonard
Against the backdrop of a startling development, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has issued a strong call for a dispassionate investigation into the allegations of threats and unlawful detention involving prominent businessman and politician Emeka Offor.
The human rights advocacy group, in a media statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator on Sunday, urged the Federal Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi SAN, to ascertain the veracity of the claims made by two young upwardly mobile professionals from Anambra State.
HURIWA’s call comes in the wake of serious allegations raised by human rights activist and lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, who has publicly disclosed an alleged plot to assassinate him orchestrated by Emeka Offor. Ejiofor, known for his role as the legal representative of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, claims that the threat is not only real but has been meticulously planned, with execution awaiting a suitable opportunity.
“The genesis of the conflict, according to Ejiofor, stems from his challenge to Emeka Offor regarding the businessman’s alleged atrocities in Orafite. Both Ejiofor and Offor hail from Orafite in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State. Ejiofor asserted that he has been a target of Offor’s hostility for challenging the businessman’s alleged wrongdoings in their hometown. The human rights lawyer further accused Offor of being behind the burning down of his house and neighborhood, as well as the killing of his personal assistant.
“In a statement titled “Plots to Assassinate Me leaked!” Ejiofor divulged the alleged plans and pointed fingers at his kinsman, Emeka Offor, as the chief plotter. He claimed that Offor had paid executioners and equipped them with the necessary weapons for the sinister plot. Ejiofor has put relevant security agencies, the Anambra State Government, and the Federal Government on high alert, urging them to take the threat seriously.
“Adding another layer to the controversy, South Africa-based activist Bonny Okonkwo has filed a Fundamental Human Rights enforcement suit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and Emeka Offor, among others. Okonkwo alleged unlawful arrest and detention, claiming to have been targeted for criticizing Emeka Offor in a media publication.
“Okonkwo, through his lawyer Sebastine Ifeanyi Okonkwo, demanded compensation of N50 million from the police for his alleged unlawful detention. The activist sought a court order restraining the police and its agents from further infringing on his liberty. Additionally, he requested an immediate release from police custody or production in court for any committed offense”.
In response to these serious allegations, HURIWA called for a thorough investigation by the Federal Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi SAN. HURIWA recognized the gravity of the allegations made by both Ejiofor and Okonkwo and urged the authorities to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry.
HURIWA recommended that the investigation should focus on determining the credibility of the alleged assassination plot against Ifeanyi Ejiofor and the circumstances surrounding the arrest and detention of Bonny Okonkwo. The association emphasized the importance of protecting the fundamental rights of individuals, regardless of their status or influence in society.
Furthermore, HURIWA called for a review of the unprecedented number of security details assigned to Emeka Offor, given the serious allegations against him. While acknowledging the need for security measures, HURIWA stressed the importance of ensuring that such measures are proportionate and do not infringe on the rights of other citizens. Hence, the association advised a scaling down of the security details attached to Emeka Offor to maintain a balance between security concerns and individual freedoms.
In addition, HURIWA acknowledged the appeal made by Bonny Okonkwo’s counsel to the Vice President, Kashim Shetima, and the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, for the immediate release of the detainee. The association pressed the relevant authorities to act promptly and impartially in addressing these concerns, ensuring that justice is served and the rule of law upheld.
In conclusion, HURIWA underscored the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law in any society. “The allegations made by Ifeanyi Ejiofor and Bonny Okonkwo are serious and should be thoroughly investigated to ensure justice, transparency, and accountability prevail. We call on all stakeholders, including the judiciary, to play their roles in upholding the principles of justice and protecting the rights of every citizen”, HURIWA concluded.
