The Nigeria Police Force has reportedly detained Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, a former commissioner and vocal critic of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma. The arrest allegedly occurred at his Abuja residence on Wednesday in the presence of his wife and children, with Ihekweme subsequently being transported to Owerri, the capital of Imo State.
Renowned human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju took to social media on Thursday to condemn the arrest, framing it as a direct attack on free speech. In a tweet, Adeyanju alleged that Ihekweme’s sole offense was his criticism of Governor Uzodimma.
“Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, a critic, was abducted by policemen yesterday in front of his wife and children at their Abuja home and taken to Owerri. His crime: criticizing Hope Uzodimma, Imo State governor,” Adeyanju wrote.
He went on to accuse the government of adopting increasingly repressive measures against dissenting voices, warning of the dangers such actions pose to democracy in Nigeria.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights activists and political analysts, many of whom view the arrest as emblematic of a broader trend of silencing opposition voices across the country. Critics have alleged that the Uzodimma administration is weaponizing state security apparatus to intimidate and suppress critics.
Despite the public outcry, the Nigeria Police Force has not yet issued an official statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding Ihekweme’s arrest or the charges, if any, against him. This silence has further fueled speculations and raised concerns about the misuse of power and the erosion of civil liberties.
Observers note that the growing intolerance for opposing viewpoints could have a chilling effect on political discourse in Nigeria, with many warning that such actions undermine the principles of accountability and transparency. Activists and advocacy groups have called for Ihekweme’s immediate release and demanded assurances from the government to safeguard citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful criticism of public officials.
