The Imo State Police Command has confirmed that Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, the former Commissioner for Foreign Affairs in the state, was lawfully arrested and not abducted as previously claimed. This clarification comes amid growing concerns and public speculation surrounding the circumstances of his detention.
According to the command’s spokesman, Henry Okoye, Ihekweme’s arrest followed a formal petition from the Imo Democratic Alliance (IDA). The petition accused Ihekweme of making seditious and inflammatory statements aimed at inciting civil unrest within the state.
Okoye explained that Ihekweme was arrested on November 27, 2024, by detectives of the Imo State Police Command. “We wish to clarify the facts. Dr. Fabian Ihekweme was not abducted but was lawfully arrested… by detectives of the Imo State Police Command,” said Okoye.
The police emphasized that a duly signed warrant of arrest was obtained before Ihekweme’s detention. This move is aimed at reassuring the public that the arrest was carried out in accordance with the law.
Okoye urged the public to disregard the false narrative circulating on social media. “The Imo State Police Command remains committed to upholding the rule of law without external influence and will provide timely updates as necessary,” he added.
Ihekweme’s arrest has sparked attention, particularly due to the circumstances surrounding his arrest. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju condemned the arrest, describing it as a suppression of free expression.
Adeyanju stated that Ihekweme was taken by police officers in front of his wife and children at their home in Abuja and transported to Owerri, Imo State. His offense, according to Adeyanju, was criticizing Governor Hope Uzodinma.
The Imo State Police Command’s clarification is a welcome development, as it sheds light on the circumstances surrounding Ihekweme’s arrest. However, the incident has raised concerns about the state of free speech in Nigeria.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the case will proceed. One thing is certain, however: the Imo State Police Command’s commitment to upholding the rule of law will be closely watched.
