HURIWA calls on NSA to investigate threat allegations against Emeka Offor

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has reiterated its call for a comprehensive investigation into allegations of threats and unlawful detention involving prominent Anambra businessman and politician, Emeka Offor.

The organization urged the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to intervene urgently, considering the gravity of the situation and its implications for the security of lives and properties.

During a press conference held today, HURIWA emphasized its earlier appeal to the Attorney General of the Federation regarding allegations made by Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor against Emeka Offor. However, in light of recent developments, the organization stressed the necessity for a broader security-focused inquiry to be led by the NSA.

Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the National Coordinator of HURIWA, while addressing journalists, highlighted the significant concerns raised by the allegations and counter-allegations involving Ejiofor, Offor, and other relevant parties. He underscored the urgent need for decisive action, particularly in light of Ejiofor’s association with the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, which lends weight to the allegations.

“Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor is not merely a lawyer but serves as the legal representative of a highly significant figure, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Given Ejiofor’s close ties to Kanu, the allegations he has leveled against Emeka Offor demand swift and thorough investigation to ascertain their veracity. The involvement of such a prominent legal figure in these allegations underscores the seriousness of the matter,” Onwubiko stated.

He further elaborated on Ejiofor’s allegations, detailing the conflict between him and Offor, which purportedly stemmed from Ejiofor’s challenge to the businessman regarding alleged atrocities in Oraifite, Anambra State. The accusations included claims that Offor was behind the burning down of Ejiofor’s house and neighborhood, as well as the killing of his personal assistant.

Onwubiko emphasized the gravity of these allegations and stressed the necessity for a fair and transparent inquiry into the matter.

Additionally, HURIWA raised concerns about the excessive use of security personnel by affluent individuals in the Igbo community, including soldiers, for private protection. This practice, according to HURIWA, diverts essential security resources away from communities in need, undermining national security efforts and perpetuating inequity.

In response to these concerns, HURIWA called on the National Assembly to pass legislation prohibiting private citizens from maintaining more than one security attachment. The organization emphasized that soldiers should not be deployed to protect private citizens under any circumstances, highlighting the adverse impact on national security priorities, particularly in the fight against terrorism.

In conclusion, HURIWA underscored the importance of upholding principles of equity, fairness, and the rule of law in addressing security challenges in Nigeria. The organization urged the NSA and other relevant authorities to conduct a prompt and impartial investigation into the allegations raised by Ejiofor and to take necessary steps to ensure the security and well-being of all citizens.

Advocating for measures aimed at restoring integrity and equity in the allocation of security resources across Nigeria, HURIWA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human rights, promoting the rule of law, and ensuring accountability in all spheres of governance.