Legal practitioner Ifeanyi Ejiofor has said several citizens of Anambra State have been in detention for five weeks in a private facility controlled by the state government led by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

In a statement made available to MyNigeria, Ejiofor lamented that since their arrest, "they have not been charged with any offence or brought before any court of law. This is a flagrant violation of their fundamental rights."

He said he found it disturbing that the 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," he said.

According to the lawyer, for five weeks, the Anambra State Government has failed to provide any official briefing or statement to the public on the status of these detainees.

"This lack of transparency is 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 said.

He further stated, "Security is a collective responsibility. I have always championed active citizen participation in combating insecurity through providing credible intelligence to security agencies. It is on record that I was among the fearless voices that condemned the heinous activities of criminals masquerading as agitators when they were wrecking havoc and unleashing terror on our people. At the height of these atrocities, I publicly urged Governor Soludo to deploy all legal means to decisively tackle these elements. I emphasized that they were not genuine agitators but criminals who should be treated as such.

"At that time, many who now attack those speaking the truth were too weak and afraid to voice their opinions. I, on the other hand, put my life, my family, and my staff at risk by standing against these criminals. I am fully aware that intelligence reports indicated several plots to eliminate me, yet I remained steadfast, trusting in God’s protection.

"That being said, I want to make my position crystal clear: 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 commision of any crime, the law must take its course.

"I have previously commended the Anambra State Government’s Agụnechemba security outfit for its efforts in restoring order. The security outfit has done well, in restoring some level of security in the state, and the Soludo administration deserves credit for its achievements. However, I have always stressed the need for professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement by security agents, to minimize casualties and avoid unnecessary errors.

"For those misconstruing my stance, let me make it clear- I am not attacking the state government. I have consistently spoken out against infractions by the Federal Government and its agencies, and I will not hesitate to do the same when our own state government errs. Political affiliations or fear of the unknown should not prevent us from speaking truth to power. I admire Governor Soludo’s vision and commend his efforts, but respect for the rule of law must remain non-negotiable.

"Anambra is a civilized state, and we must lead by example. When citizens are arrested for any alleged offence, they must be handed over to the appropriate security agencies, investigated, and, if necessary, charged to court within the legally stipulated timeframe, when prima facie case is established.

"If, however, these detainees are not under investigation but undergoing rehabilitation, the state government has an obligation to inform the public. If no incriminating evidence has been found against them, they must be released immediately and unconditionally.

"We must collectively support and promote policies that enhance the well-being of our people while ensuring that governance remains anchored on justice, fairness, and the rule of law."

ASA