It would be recalled that on April 5, 2023, a Lagos State Magistrates Court in Yaba ordered Nwajagu’s remand at the Ikoyi custodial centre, while subsequent efforts to secure his bail were denied by the Lagos State High Court.
Over one year after a Lagos court ordered his remand in the prison, South-East political organisation, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has demanded the release of the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, Lagos, Chief Frederick Nwajagu.
It would be recalled that on April 5, 2023, a Lagos State Magistrates Court in Yaba ordered Nwajagu’s remand at the Ikoyi custodial centre, while subsequent efforts to secure his bail were denied by the Lagos State High Court.
Ohaneze’s position was stated by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr Alex Ogbonnia, who expressed the group’s dissatisfaction with Nwajagu’s continuous detention.
Ogbonnia said, “We are not happy about it. Ohanaeze, Lagos chapter, has also condemned it. The Lagos State government must intervene and ensure his release.”
He also sought President Tinubu's intervention in ensuring his freedom.
Frederick has been in detention since 2023.
He is facing threats for allegedly threatening to invite members of the Indigenous People of Biafra to protect Igbo lives and property if the Federal Government failed to safeguard them against attacks during the last general elections.
Although Nwajagu was said to suffer from poor health conditions, his bail application was rejected on July 28, 2023 by Justice Yetunde Adesanya.
The judge noted that the seriousness of the allegation against him and its potential punishment left the court with no choice but to deny the request.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Elders Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo for Rivers and Bayelsa states, Chief Omenazu Jackson, said Nwajagu deserved to be released unconditionally.
“The 2023 general elections are over, and while winners have emerged, we must reflect on the experience. The outcome should not represent the greatest disservice to our nation but should be a foundation for progress. Unfortunately, we witnessed a disregard for democratic norms, with the revival of tribal divisions in some parts of the country.
“In Lagos, there was an alarming rise in Igbo-phobia, with attacks on property and individuals belonging to the Igbo community. In response, Eze Frederick Nwajagu issued a statement to defend his people and deter potential attackers. As a leader, he had a responsibility to protect his people, and his actions were not out of malice,” he noted.
The 2023 elections in Lagos came with controversy of ill-treatment of Igbos including intimidation and harassment.