The organisation said the continued detention of journalist, Chinonso Uba, popularly known as NonsoNkwa, without credible evidence is a clear case of deliberate victimisation and political prosecution.
A human rights advocacy organisation, the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), has lambasted the Nigeria Police Force for “abusing power, undermining the integrity of the legal process and attempting to silence dissent voices”.
The organisation said the continued detention of journalist, Chinonso Uba, popularly known as NonsoNkwa, without credible evidence is a clear case of deliberate victimisation and political prosecution.
The Executive Director of RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, in a statement issued on Thursday said in its brazen abuse of power and attempt to stifle individuals for political reasons, the police, knowing that a Magistrates’ Court lacks jurisdiction over charges the against Uba, deliberately arraigned him before the court to prolong his detention.
Nwanguma siad, “The actions taken against Nonso Nkwa bear resemblances of victimisation and political persecution.
“Arranging to bring Mr. Nonso Nkwa before a Magistrate’s Court, knowing it lacked jurisdiction over the charges, suggests a deliberate attempt to prolong his detention.
“The police’s decision to arrest and detain him without credible evidence undermines the integrity of the legal process and raises questions about the motives behind the arrest.
“These actions reflect a potential misuse of power aimed at silencing dissent or targeting individuals for political reasons.”
The five counts include conspiracy, treason and arson.
The journalist was apprehended on October 20 near Teachers House, Owerri-Port Harcourt Road, following a petition regarding viral videos allegedly containing inflammatory statements.
The videos were said to relate to the burning of the National Open University (NOUN) Study Centre in Nsu, Ehime Mbano LGA, on September 30, 2024.
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
