Benue Police Chief Allegedly Detains Anti-Corruption Activist, Mojekwu

Benue Police Chief Allegedly Detains Anti-Corruption Activist, Mojekwu

In recent developments in Benue State, the detention of Mr. Uchenna Mojekwu, a Civil Rights Activist and Secretary of the Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN), has ignited widespread concern and condemnation. Mojekwu’s apprehension reportedly came at the behest of the newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Mr. Yabaneth Steve Hassan……READ ALSO Hoodlums Attack House Of Reps Member In Benue Community

The controversy stems from a petition filed by Mojekwu and the GICN against Dr. Dennis Akura, the Special Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. The petition, submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in February 2024, detailed alleged financial mismanagement involving the withdrawal of over N20 billion from Benue local government accounts. These funds, the petition claimed, were purportedly authorized by Dr. Akura.

While the EFCC initiated steps to investigate the allegations, Dr. Akura reportedly sought recourse to law enforcement agencies, leading to Mojekwu’s detention. Mojekwu’s arrest on charges of conspiracy, criminal defamation, and cyberstalking has raised concerns about potential attempts to stifle anti-corruption efforts and suppress dissent.

In response to Mojekwu’s detention, Barr. Edward Omaga, Chairman of the GICN, has vowed to mobilize protests in Benue State and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Omaga asserts that Mojekwu’s arrest is an attempt to obstruct ongoing investigations by anti-graft agencies and curtail transparency efforts.

The situation has garnered attention at both local and international levels, with calls for intervention from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun. The fundamental human rights of Mojekwu, as well as the broader implications for anti-corruption activism in Nigeria, are at the forefront of these concerns.

While the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Anene Swuese, denies official knowledge of Mojekwu’s detention, the circumstances surrounding his arrest underscore broader issues of accountability, transparency, and the protection of civic freedoms in Nigeria. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders await further developments and hope for a resolution that upholds the principles of justice and democratic governance.

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