A rights group, the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has expressed serious concerns over reports of grave human rights violations allegedly committed by a self-styled vigilante leader in Egwedu Autonomous Community, Atta, Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State.
It was gathered that the said vigilante leader, Mr. Chibuike Duru (also known as Nwamgbenta), operates an illegal detention facility, extorting residents, especially market women, as well as exercises unlawful authority over civil and criminal matters in the community in the absence of effective police presence.
Further reports allege residents are subjected to arbitrary arrest and detention, and victims are required to pay money for release and even to deliver food to detainees.
Some residents also alleged that the armed vigilantes under Duru openly carry prohibited weapons, while at least two deaths have been linked to the operations of the group in recent months.
The News Chronicle correspondent reports that, while these allegations have not yet been officially confirmed by law enforcement authorities, information obtained suggests a pattern of serious abuses that demand urgent intervention by the Nigeria Police Force.
The Executive Director of RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, in a chat with our correspondent, said that, upon receiving the reports, RULAAC sought verification through credible media sources in Imo State and contacts within the affected community.
He also revealed that RULAAC has been made aware of a formal petition submitted by a human rights lawyer to the Nigeria Police Force and the National Human Rights Commission, calling for the immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of Mr. Duru and others involved.
Nwanguma said that equally disturbing are claims that some local authorities have been either unable or unwilling to intervene, allegedly because of the vigilante leader’s backing from powerful interests.
“RULAAC emphasizes that no individual or group is above the law, and no claim of authority, formal or informal, can justify violations of fundamental human rights,” he said.
The RULAAC boss demanded that Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, immediately deploy officers to Egwedu Community to restore lawful policing, conduct a prompt, impartial, and thorough investigation into all allegations, dismantle any illegal detention facilities operating in the area, and arrest and prosecute, in accordance with the law, anyone found responsible.
He also suggested providing protection for victims, witnesses, and community members who may fear reprisals.
“The Nigeria Police Act, 2020, places a duty on the Police to protect lives and property, prevent crime, and uphold human rights. Allowing armed groups or vigilantes to operate parallel systems of justice undermines the rule of law and fuels fear, insecurity, and impunity.
“RULAAC will continue to monitor developments closely and urges the Police authorities to act decisively to reassure residents that the law, not violence or intimidation, governs Imo State,” Nwanguma vowed.
