The Ohaneze ndi Igbo has called Lagos State government to release of Eze Fredrick Nwajagu of Ajao Estate, Lagos State unconditionally.
It could be recalled that on 5th April, 2023, a Lagos State Magistrate Court, Yaba ordered Eze Nwajagu’s remand at the Ikoyi custodial centre, while subsequent efforts to secure his bail were denied by the Lagos State High Court.
Over one year after a Lagos court orderd his remand in the prison, the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide has demanded for the release of the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, Lagos State, Chief Fredrick Nwajagu.
Ohaneze’s position was stated by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, who expressed the group’s dissatisfaction with Nwajagu’s continuous detention.
According to Dr. Ogbonnia, Ohaneze Ndigbo and the entire Igbo nation are not happy about this. Therfore, the Lagos State government must intervene and ensure his release. He also sought President Tinubu’s intervention in ensuring his freedom.
Although Nwajagu was said to suffer from poor health conditions, his bail application was rejected on 28th July, 2023 by Justice Yetunde Adesanya.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Elders Council of Ohaneze Ndigbo for Rivers and Bayelsa states, Chief Omenazu Jackson said Nwajagu deserved to be released unconditionally.
The 2023 general elections are over, and while winners have emerged, we must reflect on the experience. The outcome should not represent the greatest disservice to our nation, but should be a foundation for progress. Infortunately, we witnessed a disregard for democratic norms, with the revival of tribal divisions in some parts of the country.
In Lagos State, there was an alarming rise on Igbo-phobia, with attacks on property and individuals belonging to the Igbo community. In response, Eze Fredrick Nwajagu issued a statement to defend his people and deter potential attackers. As a leader, he had a responsibility to protect his people, and his actions were not out of malice.
The 2023 elections in Lagos State came with controversy of ill-treatment of Igbos, including intimidation and harassment.
We therefore, call on Lagos State government to release Eze Fredrick Nwajagu unconditionally.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
