IPOB Lawyer Condemns ‘Unlawful Detention’ of 30 Native Doctors by Anambra Govt

By Mary Obi

A human rights activist and Lead Counsel to the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) , Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has condemned what he called unlawful detention of about 30 native doctors in Anambra State by the state government.

Ejiofor argued that the continued detention of the Native Doctors several weeks after th it arrests without being charged with any offense or brought before a court of law, was a blatant violation of their fundamental rights.

In his statement, Ejiofor acknowledged that security is a collective responsibility and commended the state Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for the efforts of the Agụnechemba security outfit in restoring order in the region.

He emphasized, however, that he will not support anyone proven to be aiding or abetting criminal activities in the state, asserting that the law should take its course if credible evidence emerges.

Ejiofor stated, “As a human rights activist, I am compelled by conscience to speak out whenever the rule of law is trampled upon. It is my unwavering duty to hold those in power accountable and demand adherence to due process in governance.”

He noted that tomorrow, March 15, 2025, will mark five weeks since numerous citizens of Anambra State were arbitrarily arrested and detained in a private facility managed by the state government. Shockingly, they have not been charged or presented to any court. “This is a flagrant violation of their fundamental rights,” he added.

The activist raised concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding the detentions, stating, “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.”

Ejiofor criticized the Anambra State Government for failing to provide any official update on the detainees’ status, calling the lack of communication 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,” he remarked.

He reiterated that security is a collective responsibility, asserting his long-standing advocacy for citizen participation in combating insecurity and providing credible intelligence to security agencies.

“I have always championed active citizen participation in combating insecurity by providing credible intelligence to security agencies,” he explained.

Ejiofor further clarified his stance: “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 commission of any crime, the law must take its course.”

While commending the Agụnechemba security outfit for its efforts in restoring security in the state, he cautioned against the need for professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement to minimize casualties and errors.

In closing, he stressed the need for accountability, stating, “When citizens are arrested for any alleged offense, they must be handed over to the appropriate security agencies, investigated, and, if necessary, charged to court within the legally stipulated timeframe when a prima facie case is established.”

Meanwhile, the charity foundation and equal rights group Tilova for Africa, based in the United States, has offered to finance legal representation for the detained native doctors. The CEO, Martins Nwabueze, expressed his disapproval, labeling the arrests and detentions as “unjust profiling.”

In response to these developments, the Anambra State government confirmed the ongoing detention and investigation of native doctors suspected of involvement in fraudulent activities, particularly “get-rich-quick” schemes associated with “Okeite” practices.

In a statement, the commissioner for information, Dr. Law Mefor, emphasized the government’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting individuals who exploit residents through deceptive practices.

“The Anambra State Executive Council is documenting practitioners of traditional medicine (native doctors) but is not issuing practice certificates. Continuous investigations into those in custody suspected of malpractice are ongoing. Those found guilty will face the full force of the law,” Mefor stated.