Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abuja, Nigeria – Concerns over human rights and due process have intensified as Emeka Richmond Ngornadi remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) despite two valid court orders mandating his release. Arrested in 2020, Ngornadi has reportedly never been produced before any court, a situation human rights advocates describe as a clear violation of Nigerian law.
Barrister Nnemeka Ejiofor, a human rights lawyer, stated that Ngornadi is currently being held at Wawa Cantonment in Niger State alongside more than 200 other detainees. Many of these individuals were allegedly arrested from the eastern region of the country without just cause or any formal trial. Ejiofor emphasized that the DSS has blocked access to the detainees, preventing family members and legal representatives from communicating with them.
“The DSS has denied all access to the detainees, blocking lawyers and family members from seeing or communicating with the victims,” Ejiofor said, highlighting the severity of the alleged rights violations. He further noted, “Emeka is currently being held against his will and the Nigeria Law at Wawa Cantonment, alongside over 200 individuals, most of whom were allegedly arrested from the eastern part of the country without any just cause or trial.”
This situation has raised alarm among civil society groups, who argue that prolonged detention without trial undermines the foundational principles of justice in Nigeria. Observers note that such actions erode public confidence in the legal system and may contravene both domestic laws and international human rights obligations.
Legal experts stress that Nigerian law mandates timely arraignment and access to legal representation for all detainees. The prolonged incarceration of Ngornadi and others without court appearances has drawn sharp criticism from national and international human rights organizations, prompting calls for urgent intervention.
The DSS has not publicly commented on the detention, further fueling concerns over accountability and transparency. Human rights advocates are urging relevant authorities, including the judiciary and civil society groups, to ensure that court orders are respected and that detainees are granted their fundamental rights, including access to legal counsel and family visits.
The case of Emeka Richmond Ngornadi highlights ongoing challenges within Nigeria’s security and justice framework, particularly the balance between national security measures and adherence to constitutional protections. Analysts warn that failure to address these issues could deepen public mistrust and escalate tensions surrounding the enforcement of human rights standards in the country.
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