Police arrest ex-Imo commissioner for criticising gov Hope Uzodimma

The Nigeria Police Force has reportedly arrested Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, a former commissioner in Imo State and a vocal critic of Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Ihekweme was allegedly apprehended at his Abuja residence on Wednesday in the presence of his wife and children before being transported to Owerri, the capital of Imo State.

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju condemned the arrest, labeling it an attack on free speech. In a tweet on Thursday, Adeyanju alleged that Ihekweme’s only offense was his outspoken criticism of Governor Uzodimma’s administration.

The incident has sparked widespread concern over the suppression of dissenting voices in Nigeria. Many are questioning the implications of such arrests on democratic principles, particularly freedom of expression.

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“Dr Fabian Ihekweme, a critic, was abducted by policemen yesterday in front of his wife and children in their Abuja home and taken to Owerri. His crime: criticizing Hope Uzodimma, Imo State governor,” Adeyanju tweeted.

Adeyanju further criticized what he described as an increasingly authoritarian approach to dissent in the country.

As of now, the police are yet to release an official statement regarding the arrest.

Ihekweme’s arrest has sparked outrage among human rights advocates and political observers, who argue that the move reflects a growing pattern of stifling dissent in Nigeria.

Critics have accused the Uzodimma administration of using law enforcement agencies to silence opposition voices and suppress public criticism.