Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly appealed for the release of Chief Frederick Nwajagu, the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, Lagos, who has been in detention since 2023.
Nwajagu is facing trial over allegations that he threatened to invite members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to protect Igbo lives and property, should the Federal Government fail to safeguard them during the 2023 general elections.
On April 5, 2023, a Lagos State Magistrates Court in Yaba ordered Nwajagu’s detention at the Ikoyi Custodial Centre, and subsequent bail applications were denied by the Lagos State High Court.
Despite concerns over his health and assurances that he would not flee, his bail request was rejected on July 28, 2023, by Justice Yetunde Adesanya, who cited the seriousness of the charges and the potential punishment as reasons for denying bail.
In an interview with DAILY GAZETTE, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, expressed frustration over Nwajagu’s prolonged detention.
He emphasized that the group, along with the Ohanaeze Lagos chapter, strongly condemned the situation and called on the Lagos State Government to intervene and secure his release.
Ogbonnia also urged for broader governmental action, suggesting that the involvement of President Bola Tinubu would be helpful in ensuring justice.
“We are not happy about it. The Lagos State Government must intervene and ensure his release. Government at all levels should ensure that he is set free,” he stated.
Chief Omenazu Jackson, Chairman of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Elders Council for Rivers and Bayelsa States, also weighed in, asserting that Nwajagu should be released unconditionally.
Jackson pointed out that the 2023 elections had passed, and although some winners had emerged, the period also witnessed a rise in tribal tensions, especially in Lagos, where attacks on Igbo property and individuals were reported.
Jackson explained that in the face of such attacks, Nwajagu, as a leader, had acted to protect his people and deter further violence.
“His actions were not out of malice. As a leader, he had a responsibility to defend his people,” he said.
