Renowned human rights lawyer, Ejiofor, has called for the immediate release of the detained native doctor, Akwa Okuko, in Anambra State, condemning the ongoing violation of his rights and the broader infringement on freedom of worship.
In a statement issued today, Lawyer Ejiofor expressed concern over the arrest and detention of Akwa Okuko, a well-known traditional healer in the state, who was apprehended by authorities under allegations yet to be substantiated. Ejiofor strongly criticized the authorities for targeting individuals based on their religious beliefs and practices, pointing out that Akwa Okuko's detention represents a direct attack on Nigeria’s constitutionally protected right to freedom of worship.
"As a society, we must stand firm in protecting the rights of individuals to practice their beliefs, whether traditional, spiritual, or otherwise. The arrest of Akwa Okuko undermines these fundamental freedoms and sets a dangerous precedent for the future," Ejiofor remarked.
The lawyer highlighted that while the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to practice their religion freely, the actions of the security forces in this case are in direct contravention of these rights. Ejiofor emphasized the importance of respecting traditional practices and urged the authorities to halt any discriminatory actions that target indigenous belief systems.
Lawyer Ejiofor further expressed his belief that the native doctor’s arrest was politically motivated and called for an independent investigation into the matter to ensure transparency and justice. He stressed that the ongoing detention of Akwa Okuko is not only unlawful but also a violation of international human rights norms, particularly in a democracy that prides itself on freedom of worship.
"It is imperative that the government respects the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious practices. The continued persecution of individuals based on their spiritual or traditional affiliations cannot be tolerated," Ejiofor concluded.