The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has renewed calls for the release of Chief Frederick Nwajagu, the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate in Lagos, who has been in detention since 2023. Nwajagu was arrested following remarks suggesting that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) might be invited to protect Igbo lives and property during the last general elections if the Federal Government failed to provide security.
Remanded at the Ikoyi custodial centre on April 5, 2023, Nwajagu’s case has seen repeated denials of bail, despite assurances of his willingness to comply with court processes and concerns about his health. In July, Justice Yetunde Adesanya rejected his bail application, citing the gravity of the charges and their potential punishment.
Ohanaeze’s Plea for Justice
The continued detention of Nwajagu has drawn sharp criticism from Igbo leaders, with Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and its Lagos chapter condemning what they describe as a lack of justice. Speaking to Sunday PUNCH, as seen by Abuja Politico, Dr Alex Ogbonnia, National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze, expressed the group’s frustration.
“We are not happy about it,” Ogbonnia said. “The Lagos State Government must intervene and ensure his release.” He also called on President Bola Tinubu and other levels of government to facilitate Nwajagu’s freedom.
Leadership and Context
The Chairman of the Elders Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo for Rivers and Bayelsa states, Chief Omenazu Jackson, echoed these sentiments, urging Nwajagu’s unconditional release. Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Jackson criticised the tribal divisions and targeted attacks against Igbo communities that marred the democratic process in Lagos.
“The elections are over, and we must use this moment to build a more united nation,” Jackson said. “In Lagos, there was an alarming rise in Igbo-phobia, with attacks on Igbo property and individuals. In response, Eze Frederick Nwajagu sought to defend his people. His actions stemmed from a sense of duty as a leader, not malice.”
Jackson argued that detaining Nwajagu sends the wrong message about leadership and the protection of minority communities.
A Lingering Test of Unity
Nwajagu’s case highlights broader concerns about justice, ethnic relations, and governance in Nigeria. For many, his prolonged detention raises troubling questions about the state’s commitment to equality and fairness, particularly in addressing grievances among marginalised groups.
With pressure mounting on Lagos authorities and the Federal Government, the outcome of Nwajagu’s trial could signal either a step forward in healing ethnic divisions—or a deepening of old wounds.
