Ex-Commissioner Demands N10bn Compensation from Governor Over Torture and Violations of Rights

Fabian Ihekweme, a former Commissioner for Foreign Affairs in Imo State has demanded N10 billion in compensation and a public apology from the Imo State Government over allegations of unlawful detention, torture, and violation of his fundamental human rights.

In a letter addressed to Governor Hope Uzodinma, Ihekweme’s lawyers insisted that his detention was illegal and that his rights to personal liberty, fair hearing, and freedom of movement were grossly violated.

The former commissioner is demanding an open apology from Governor Hope Uzodinma to be published in two national dailies, as well as financial compensation.

Ihekweme’s detention sparked widespread concern in late November 2024, with the Imo Police Command claiming that he was arrested over allegations of seditious and inflammatory publications against Governor Uzodinma.

However, a Federal High Court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) later ordered Ihekweme’s immediate and unconditional release from police custody, where he had been detained for 62 days.

The court also granted a perpetual injunction restraining the Inspector General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, and their authorized agents from further disturbing or interfering with Ihekweme’s rights. Citing Sections 34, 35, 36, and 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ihekweme’s lawyers argued that his detention was a clear violation of his fundamental human rights.