Hon. Augustine Onyekachukwu Ike, who represents the Nnewi North constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, has voiced serious concerns regarding alleged misconduct involving local police and a magistrate. His statement highlights the illegal detention of a woman, Mrs. Ngozi Ubah, along with her two children, and the forced disappearance of several residents.
In a communication to SaharaReporters on Friday, Ike accused certain police officers and judiciary staff in Nnewi of serving the interests of a select few rather than upholding justice. He noted that community leaders had to intervene recently to prevent potential unrest in the area.
“I am compelled to bring attention to the actions of the Nigerian Police and Her Worship Adaeze Eze, the magistrate of Nnewi Court 4, regarding the detention of Mrs. Ngozi Ubah, which is linked to a family dispute involving her brother-in-law,” Ike stated.
He elaborated that Mrs. Ubah had previously accused her brother-in-law of various forms of abuse since her marriage. This family conflict has now escalated to a legal battle in the Nnewi Magistrate Court, despite being under investigation by the Inspector General of Police in Abuja.
According to Ike, Mrs. Ubah and her children were unfairly remanded in custody, with bail conditions described as excessively harsh.
Additionally, Ike raised concerns about the case of Onyedika Uzoukwu, a young man reportedly arrested by police after being lured into a specific area by vigilante members. The lawmaker claimed that Uzoukwu has since gone missing, and the police have not provided any information to his family regarding his whereabouts.
In light of these allegations, Ike urged the Chief Judge of Anambra State to review the conduct of the magistrate in Nnewi Court 4, warning that the public’s faith in the local judiciary is at stake. “It is crucial to act swiftly to restore trust in our judicial system and prevent further disruptions,” he added.
He also called on the Commissioner of Police to ensure that Uzoukwu is located and that justice is pursued against any police officers who may have acted improperly. The rising incidents of kidnapping in the area have further alarmed his constituents, prompting Ike to demand a comprehensive investigation into such crimes since 2020.
“My constituents expect swift action and accountability,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for the state’s executive governor to intervene. “We need immediate measures to restore peace and security in Nnewi.”
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