By Joy Odor
Representatives of civil society organisations under the banner of the Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) and our allied networks across Nigeria, have convened this media briefing to express our growing concern over the ongoing clampdown on civic space and human rights in Ebonyi State, particularly the unjust arrest, inhumane treatment, and politically motivated prosecution of Comrade Emmanuel Acha — a human rights defender and Chairperson of the Enugu State Civil Society Network.
This case not only reflects a dangerous regression in our democratic values but also demonstrates the lengths to which state and non-state actors may go to silence lawful dissent. It is a chilling message to all human rights defenders and civil society leaders across the country.
*Background*
Comrade Acha was arrested in Enugu at about 5:00 AM in March 2025 and transferred to Abakaliki Prison in Ebonyi State. According to his family and close associates, the arrest was orchestrated in retaliation for a civil suit he filed in December 2024 — Suit No: FHC/AI/CS/FHR/221/24 — challenging government actions in relation to the protracted Effium-Ezza land dispute in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
This land conflict, which escalated into inter-communal violence in 2021, has drawn multiple state interventions including the 2023 ceasefire agreement, the 2024 Bishop Michael N. Okoro Peace Committee, and the 2025 amnesty and deradicalization programme. While we commend these measures, we strongly condemn the use of state power and police machinery to punish dissenting voices under the guise of conflict resolution.
Rather than engage Comrade Acha’s legal concerns through transparent and lawful channels, the State has chosen coercion over dialogue — detaining him without bail and bringing him before the court on trumped-up charges in Charge No: HKW/27C/2025, which include allegations of arms possession and murder. He is being tried before a judge reportedly from the rival community involved in the conflict — a development that raises serious questions about judicial impartiality.
*Human Rights Abuses*
Upon his arrest, Emmanuel Acha was subjected to physical assault and psychological torment, allegedly at the hands of police officers, one of whom is of Ezza ethnic extraction. No incriminating evidence was found on his person or in his home, and his arrest was not based on any judicial warrant. These actions contravene Sections 34, 35, and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee the right to dignity, personal liberty, and freedom of expression.
He has now spent over three months in detention, without adequate medical care, and in violation of due process. This is a clear case of political persecution disguised as criminal prosecution.
*Legal and Constitutional Context*
In a democratic society, citizens must be free to question government policies, challenge injustice, and seek redress through the courts. Section 39(1) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria affirms the right to freedom of expression and opinion. Section 6(6)(b) further guarantees the judicial powers of the courts in protecting civil rights and obligations. These constitutional guarantees are now under threat in Ebonyi State.
*Our Collective Demands*
We hereby call on His Excellency, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru and relevant authorities to immediately:
1. Order the immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Emmanuel Acha and others detained for asserting their rights regarding the Effium-Ezza conflict.
2. Ensure accountability for all public officials and police personnel who have abused their powers and violated the rights of Emmanuel Acha.
3. Withdraw all politically motivated charges and ensure that any proceedings follow due process and impartiality.
4. Ensure he receives immediate medical attention, is granted access to legal counsel and family, and is protected from further abuse in custody.
5. Invite independent mediators, civil society organisations, and international observers to monitor the implementation of the Ebonyi State White Paper on the Effium-Ezza conflict, as part of an inclusive and just peace process.
6. Respect the constitutional rights of all Nigerians to seek legal redress and participate in civic life without fear of reprisal.
*Next Steps*
We had previously submitted a formal petition to the Governor of Ebonyi State dated July 7, 2025, demanding these actions. A copy of that petition has been made available today for your review. We regret to report that as of today, there has been no response or action from the government.
We have also petitioned the National Human Rights Commission and are urging them to launch an independent investigation, ensure medical access and legal aid to Emmanuel Acha, and intervene against the growing trend of police abuse for political ends.
*Conclusion*
The case of Emmanuel Acha is a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy and commitment to human rights. We cannot afford to normalize the criminalization of civic actors or permit impunity to flourish. This is not just about one man — it is about the future of civic space in Nigeria.
We therefore ask for the support of the media, the public, and the international community to amplify this call and demand justice.
We stand in unyielding solidarity with Comrade Emmanuel Acha and all others who have suffered repression for simply seeking justice.
Thank you.
Signed:
1. Spaces for Change (S4C)
2. Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC)
3. Restorative Justice for Africa (REJA-Initiative)
4. Partnership for Social and Environmental Development Initiative (P4SEDI)
5. Open Arms Initiative for Sustainable Development (OPAISD)
6. Centre for Community Empowerment in Conflict and Peacebuilding (Kaduna)
7. TruORGANIC Initiative for Social & Communities Development
8. Centre for Justice, Empowerment & Development (C4J), Port Harcourt
9. Peace Point Development Foundation (PPDF), Uyo
10. Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD)
11. Better Community Life Initiative (BECOLIN)
