Human Rights Lawyer Tackles Amnesty Intl’s for Linking IPOB to Okigwe Killings

By Mary Obi

A prominent human rights lawyer and legal counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has criticized the recent statement by Amnesty International Nigeria which hastily attributed the recent killings in Okigwe, Imo State, to IPOB. Ejiofor contends that the organization’s assessment lacks adequate investigation and due diligence.

In a statement issued recently to journalists in Awka, Anambra State, Ejiofor emphasized the necessity for a meticulous, impartial, and evidence-based inquiry into the incident. He warned that the rapid assignment of blame to IPOB without comprehensive verification undermines the integrity and neutrality expected from a reputable human rights organization.

“The impetus behind the statement from Amnesty International Nigeria highlights an alarming need for a rigorous, objective investigation. The immediate connection made between IPOB and the killings raises serious questions regarding the reliability and fairness of their conclusions,” Ejiofor stated.

He further articulated, “It is essential to assert unequivocally that no person or authority is entitled to take another’s life outside the parameters set by due process as outlined in Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The sanctity of human life must remain inviolable.”

Ejiofor unequivocally condemned the killing of innocent travelers, describing the perpetrators as “beasts in human form” who have severed their ties to humanity. He urged Nigeria’s security agencies to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation into the heinous crimes, calling for the identification, capture, and subsequent prosecution of those responsible. He cautioned against mere lip service and called for a genuine commitment to addressing such violent acts.

Upon reviewing Amnesty International Nigeria’s statement, Ejiofor highlighted a series of inconsistencies and concerning oversights:

-Questionable Source of Casualty Figures:** Amnesty International Nigeria published specific casualty figures without disclosing independently verified sources, diverging from their usual protocol of relying on thorough investigations that can take time before arriving at conclusive figures.

• Premature Attribution of Blame: Although local police confirmed the occurrence of the attack, they did not verify casualty figures or identify the attackers. Amnesty International’s definitive linking of the violence to IPOB appears speculative and lacks substantiation.

-Potential Conflict of Interest: Questions regarding the neutrality of Amnesty International Nigeria’s Country Director arise due to his prior political role as Special Assistant to the Governor of Yobe State, potentially jeopardizing the objectivity of the organization’s reporting.

-Ongoing Threats in the Region: It is acknowledged that factions loyal to Simon Ekpa persist in unsettling communities throughout the Southeast. While this scenario warrants immediate state intervention, it does not rationalize the hasty assignment of blame without diligent investigation.

In conclusion, Ejiofor asserted the critical importance of a credible, unbiased investigation into the Okigwe killings that appeases both national and international stakeholders. He stated, “The loss of innocent lives must not be politicized or sensationalized. Justice must not only be pursued but must be visibly achieved to honor the victims and uphold the rule of law in our democracy. Only through steadfast investigation can we pave the way for justice and lasting peace.”
End.