Acclaimed Nigerian Playwright and Author Cheta Igbokwe Delivers a Powerful Review of ‘In Broad Daylight’ By Nneoma Michelle Egeonu

Izunna Okafor
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Acclaimed Nigerian Playwright and Author Cheta Igbokwe Delivers a Powerful Review of ‘In Broad Daylight’ By Nneoma Michelle Egeonu

 

Nothing Hidden Under The Sun: A Review of In Broad Daylight

Title: In Broad Daylight
Author: Nneoma Michelle Egeonu
Publisher: Ifeadigo Publishing Company Limited
Pagination: 395
Year of Publication: 2023
Reviewer: Cheta Igbokwe

In Broad Daylight is the second offering of fiction from bestselling author, Nneoma Michelle Egeonu, the first being Nightmare In Sicily, a complex collection of short stories that explores grave themes and flits between locations in Nigeria, Italy and Germany. With her second book, this brilliant work of full-length crime fiction, Egeonu reinforces through its striking title and complex plot the potency of the popular saying that “There is nothing hidden under the sun.” Partly derived from a passage of the Holy Bible, specifically Luke 8:17, which says “Nothing is hidden that will not become evident, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light,” the saying has been taken to mean that every secret act or covered misdeed has its day of exposure, reckoning or judgment. Over the epic span of nearly 400 pages, Egeonu crafts a riveting addition to crime fiction that serves equal measures of thrilling detective work, gruesome crime, dense mystery, relatable settings, sharp dialogue and fast-paced action, all made to cohesively marinate in startling and gritty social realism.

Largely, the novel’s intricate plot revolves around the character of Inspector Kachi Obi: a formidable detective, fully-rounded and sharply drawn, but like most hard-boiled sleuths of the literary subgenre within which he operates, shadowed by past trauma. This painful past later assumes a significance that is sure to astound even avid readers who are adept at predicting plot twists. Back to the plot of In Broad Daylight, Kachi finds himself entangled in the webbed center of an enormous criminal conspiracy, one that extends beyond initial suspicions of serial homicide. Heading a dedicated squad of officers, Kachi pursues a trail that meanders through illegal arms dealing, identity theft, grainy CCTV footage, autopsies, news archives and medical examinations: a trail that finally and ironically circles back to him. Gradually, we observe the frustrations and acquired triumphs of detective investigations, an experience peculiar to law enforcement and echoed in classic TV shows like HBO’s The Wire and True Detective, or in David Fincher’s Se7en.

However, In Broad Daylight avoids becoming just an ambitious pastiche of genre tropes and clichés, choosing instead to grow its originality from an inspired landscape that is as unique as the city it unfolds within: Onitsha. The novel features cultural and social sensibilities one can only attribute to an authentic Igbo background, and in doing so, lends itself a distinctiveness necessary to stand out. And yet, the true spirit of the book owes much to a rich history of The Detective Novel, in the manipulation of evidence that calls back to Agatha Christie, or the complication of a plot with red herrings, ruses and dead ends that Arthur Conan Doyle mastered with Sherlock Holmes. Diverging from its primary purpose of entertainment, the novel also offers a candid critique of the society it imitates, drawing attention to the deeply entrenched and systematic enablement of criminality, especially one that jam-packs “small prison cells…with bare-chested inmates” (193) while bigger criminals exist freely in “palatial” and “stately” mansions (315). And from the cynical viewpoint of Kachi, we are made to admit that more often than not, there exists a strong linkage between the criminals we abhor, such as the serial killer, and the criminal elements who hide behind facades of respectable authority or public service, like Governor Philip Ugwu and his ties to organ trafficking. In this vein, In Broad Daylight almost proves prophetic or merely mirrors reality, for not too long ago, the shocking conviction of a prominent politician and statesman on charges of organ harvesting made news headlines.

Additionally, what brilliance can be seen in In Broad Daylight is largely due to Egeonu’s characters, all of whom are convincing in their humanity. Sometimes, we applaud their heroism; and other times, we condemn their dastardly or duplicitous acts: but it is the truest testament to Egeonu’s shrewd grasp of compelling characterization that we can still afford to understand these characters and their motivations. But who is this epic tale of crime and consequences for, really? The answer is the reader who seeks the relentless thrill of good storytelling. However, In Broad Daylight is more than a breezy paperback, weighted as it is by historical references, medical research, Biblical undertones and intense interrogations of the human mind capable of good and evil. As such, it is a text worthy of serious critical examination, not just for the literary gem it is, but also for the revelatory relevance it offers our dynamic society.

In the bittersweet conclusion that follows its exhilarating climax of clues, the novel’s protagonist, Kachi, regrets “being a detective” (338), a crisis of the self that illuminates one of In Broad Daylight’s hardest lessons: sure, “secrets abound” (158), but in digging for the truth, are we always prepared for the answers we may uncover? Ultimately, we should take the advice given to Kachi by a clergyman: “Do what your heart tells you…” (138), which basically charges us to always trust our gut feelings and instincts whenever chaos reigns, for in doing so, we can come close to not only knowing our truest selves, but the real measure of our lives.

Copyright © 2023 Cheta Igbokwe

Cheta Igbokwe (born Sixtus Chetachi Igbokwe; 1996) is a renowned Nigerian playwright, poet, author and reviewer. His play Homecoming won the 2021 Association of Nigerian Authors’ (ANA) Prize for Drama and was nominated for the 2023 Nigeria Prize for Literature.

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Emotional Moment As Peter Obi Visits Victims of Onitsha Fire Outbreak, Pledges Support (Videos)

Izunna Okafor
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Emotional Moment As Peter Obi Visits Victims of Onitsha Fire Outbreak, Pledges Support (Videos)

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

It was an emotional moment on Saturday, March 29, 2025, as the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi visited the scenes of the devastating fire incident that razed down many goods, houses and other property at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State.

It would be recalled that a heavy inferno, on Friday, befell and ravaged the Electronics Market at Iweka Road and a warehouse at Ifejirika Street (Main Market), resulting in huge loss of goods worth several billions of naira. The fire, was, however, fiercely battled and brought under control by the gallant officers of the Anambra State Fire Service.

Visiting the scene on Saturday, Obi, a former Governor of the State, toured the affected areas amidst cheers, and expressed deep sorrow over the destruction, emphasizing the hardship traders are facing during these tough economic times. He also held private meetings with market leaders and some of the worst-hit traders, listening to their concerns and pledging support to help assuage and ameliorate the effects of the inferno, the cause of which is yet to be identified.

Taking to his verified X (Twitter) handle shortly after the visit, Obi, who pledged his own “modest support”, also appealed the Government at all levels, as well as corporate bodies and private individuals to assist the victims in any way possible.

He commended the State Fire Service for their efforts in containing the blaze despite facing logistical challenges.

He wrote:

A Heartbreaking Moment as I visit the Scene of Tragedy

Today, I visited the burnt electronics market at Iweka Road and the devastated warehouse at Ifejirika Street (Main market), Onitsha in Anambra State.

It was a deeply painful experience to witness the enormous loss suffered by traders at such a challenging time. Without a doubt, several billions of naira worth of goods and properties were lost. The scale of the destruction was overwhelming.

I held private meetings with the leadership of both markets, as well as with some of the traders most severely affected by the inferno. I thank the State Fire Service for their efforts in containing the spread of the fire, despite the obvious challenges.

I sincerely appeal to the Government at all levels: Local Government, Council, State Government, Federal Government, Corporate bodies, and Private Individuals to extend assistance by any means possible to the victims at this difficult time.
In my own modest way, I intend to offer my modest support.

In moments like this, our shared humanity must prevail. Let us come together to restore hope, rebuild livelihoods, and reaffirm the spirit of community that defines us.

Watch the videos below:

IPOB Condemns Mob Action Against Hausas in Edo, Says Nigeria’s Break-up Only Solution to Prevent Implosion

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IPOB Condemns Mob Action Against Hausas in Edo, Says Nigeria’s Break-up Only Solution to Prevent Implosion

 

The noble family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) worldwide condemned the killing of travelling Northerners precisely Hausa tribe in Edo State. The jungle justice mated on some of the purported Hausa hunters transiting from Edo State is a regrettable as the indigenous Hausas are equally facing ethnic annihilation in the hands of the Fulani invaders.

The global family of IPOB want our Southern brethren to understand that Hausas are never the problems in the indigenous people in Nigeria. Indigenous Hausas people are harmless, hardworking and accommodating unlike the Fulanis ethnic group. Indigenous Hausas are being forced to flee their ancestral communities by the marauding Fulani terrorists and bandits. In that regard, IPOB is advising the Southern brethren not to attack Hausas in the region but to treat them as victims of oppression. People should try and distinguish between Hausas and Fulani ethnic groups. Hausas are victims of subjugation and oppression in the hands of the Fulani ethnic groups. The barbaric attack and murder by the civilians in Edo State must have been as a result of ongoing bitterness and frustration from unaddressed Fulani terrorist and kidnapping activities that have being going on in Edo State.

However, it’s rather ignorance or stupidity for any Northerner, whether Hausa or Fulani or others to enter any Southern bushes or forest for a so called hunting. The reason is that Nigerians particularly in the South has been crying and protesting against fulani kidnappers. Many people have been victims of Fulani kidnapping daily. To make the matters worse, the Nigerian Government and her murderous Security Forces fade ignorance of the kidnapping activities of the Fulani terrorists and bandits in the South. The result is that every Northerner including the innocent ones has become a prime suspect. Nigerians are already provoked because the Nigerian Government and her Security have abandoned the people to their fate when it comes to security. Even when some of these Fulani kidnappers are apprehended and handed over to the police by the locals, with one call from Abuja, the Police will release the Fulani kidnapper suspect. As a result the people have lost confidence in the Nigerian Security Agencies and have become a law unto themselves. Haven identified these purported Hausas hunters with some of their supposed hunting weapons, the anger and suspicion of the people led to the unfortunate lynching of the men. We therefore, advise the Southern brethren to avoid ethnic profiling and attacks to all Northerners. All the Northerners are not harmful. But those fulani terrorists and kidnappers inside the bushes are a threat to all the indigenous people in Nigeria. Indigenous people of Hausas are facing extermination like indigenous people of Biafra and Indigenous people of Oduduwa.

The IPOB global family condemns the unfortunate attack and killing of some purported Hausas travelling to the North for the salla celebration. We join others in asking for a proper investigation into the case. We caution the police from raiding and indiscriminate arrest which is the usual thing in the South. As the tempos are high, the leaders from the North and South must advice their people not to take laws into their own hands. Nigeria security is at the fragile state. There is a serious ethnic mistrust in Nigeria and any ethnic spark may leave Nigeria in a very sorry state. IPOB wants to exit Nigeria peacefully without shielding of innocent blood that’s why we have constantly asked that Nigeria be balkanized peacefully. Nigerians knows that Nigeria is an unworkable union forced to remain in a cage while fighting and killing themselves at the entertainment of the British colonialist and their political savages.

IPOB commiserates with the families of those men who were attacked and killed by frustrated angry mobs in Edo State. We call for calm as authorities should carry out investigation and prosecution of the culprits. Moreso, the innocent Northerners should avoid entering the bushes in the South for whatever reason in these current fragile security situations in Nigeria. If you want to hunt or fish please do that in the North. Fulani terrorists and kidnappers have already created suspicion in the minds of every Southerner with their unrepentant terrorist and kidnapping activities. The attack and the barbaric jungle justice of these Hausas is a regrettable one. We hope and pray that such actions should not repeat itself anywhere in Nigeria until Nigeria is dissolved peacefully.

Ignore Nwaeke’s False Claims On Gov. Fubara “He Spoke Under Duress See Video”

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Ignore Nwaeke’s False Claims On Gov. Fubara “He Spoke Under Duress See Video”

 

My attention has been drawn to a press briefing by the former Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke aired on Channels Television on Friday the 28th of March 2025.

Ordinarily, I would not have responded to his claims, but to correct the erroneous impression such allegations may create in the minds of the people, and the disaffection it is bound to cause in the state and the country.

First, on the claim that he was aware of my discussions and plans to support Bala Mohammed’s alleged 2027 presidential bid, it is laughable that Dr. Nwaeke would be part of any high level political meeting as Head of Service, much more sitting in my alleged night meetings with Bala Mohammed and militants like he claimed. Howbeit, none of such meetings ever held.

The truth is that the whole world knew when the Bauchi State Governor, as Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum visited the State, and there was nothing secret about the visits.

It is also ludicrous for Dr. Nwaeke to claim that he was aware of my meetings to encourage attacks on oil pipelines and other National assets in the State, as there was no time I held any meeting with militants or any criminal group to destabilise the State. It is on record that I have been at the forefront preaching peace in the State even in the face of obvious provocations.

The truth is that Dr. Nwaeke has been compromised, and whatever he is saying is only aimed at fulfilling his promise to those who may have paid or coerced him to lie against me.

I call on all well meaning Nigerians and the good people of Rivers State to disregard everything said by Dr. Nwaeke as they are mere desperate attempts to discredit me and my administration, and undermine the peace process by Mr. President.

His Excellency,
Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS
Governor of Rivers State

–

See below – This video was done at signature hotel abuja Wike’s hotel

The composure and demeanor of the former HOS would rather suggest that he was made to speak under duress. Take a closer look at the video.

Again, one must ask why they took him to a Hotel room to do such a confession on camera, if it was not stage-managed.

The HOS appears to have his life under serious threat as it would appear he was under abduction.

If they can, they would attempt to intimidate Tammy Danagogo and Edison himself.

We are dealing with very desperate people who would stop at nothing to discredit the Governor and perpetuate the State of emergency.

Let’s be more critical in assessing whatever they throw into the political space in these times.

–

Below – Florence Nwaeke, wife of the former HoS of Rivers State

 

Between the Jigawa state government and the drop in grain prices – By Adamu Muhd Usman

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Between the Jigawa state government and the drop in grain prices – By Adamu Muhd Usman

 

“If you can think of it, you can plan it; if you can plan it, you can dream it; if you can dream it, you can achieve it.” – Unknown author

Farming and livestock are Jigawa’s main occupations. The Jigawa people and its government are always interested in farming. So talking about farming, farmers, commodities and livestock prices are interesting issues for Jigawa people.

The prices of cash crops, grains, etc., are recording a steady drop in Jigawa State occasioned by the yearning and interest of the people of the state and also some state government commitment for both farming of animals and farm produce.

A check and investigations by yours sincerely showed and proved that the prices of many things had dropped by 20-30 per cent in the last four weeks and thereabouts in Jigawa state.

A 10 kg local rice farm (produced) in Jigawa State was sold at ₦9,000 as against the previous price of almost ₦12,000. Millet, sorghum, beans, wheat, Benny seeds, etc., indicated a similar price decrease.

People are of the opinion that the situation of a high supply of the produce from farms in Jigawa State has committed itself to producing a large quantity of farm produce and livestock to meet the demand in the region or the country at large. Surely, the increase in the supply of the produce from the farms or farmers had forced prices down in the recent past.

Others still attributed this price drop to the fear of Allah instilled in the hearts of hoarders because the clerics kept preaching against hoarding, which is seriously frown upon by God Almighty.

While some political critics viewed it as the bad economic policies of the President Tinubu administration, in which Allah used it to bring relief to the common man.

Quite obviously, Jigawa is amongst the three states in the federation that produce and supply the nation and some neighbouring counties with grains, livestock, fish and frogs. Jigawa state is also first in Hibiscus, sesame, gum Arabic, datefarm and also Jigawa is not left behind in the farming of cotton and Siemens. —-Jigawa is blessed.

But at the overround investigations, findings and outcomes, it was largely concluded that all these results and achievements were attributed to the people’s interest and passion for farming, but it is mostly because of the government’s commitments to assist, promote and enhance agricultural production in the state to make it a priority in Jigawa as a means of livelihood, occupation and income for the Jigawa populace and to be a source of internally generated revenue (IGR) for the state and also make the state feed the nation formula. Thank God, the airport (cargo) built by the former governor, Dr Sule Lamido, will now be very functional and useful.

The big question now is, can the state government sustain its support for the agricultural sector and continue to pay more attention and also sustain the package and gesture?

We hope that farmers in the state will continue to enjoy maximum support in crop production, including the use of mechanised farming. This will encourage livestock farming, which will go a long way to reduce or stop farmers’/herders’ clashes.

Also, the issue of soil erosion should be given due attention, and more roads should be constructed across the state in order to facilitate bringing out farm produce from villages and rural areas to urban areas.

As the saying goes, Success is getting what you want, and happiness is wanting what you get.

Adamu writes from Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State.

Senate President Akpabio celebrates President Tinubu on his 73rd birthday

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Senate President Akpabio celebrates President Tinubu on his 73rd birthday

…Says Tinubu’s passion for Nigeria contagious

The President of the 10th Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has extended his heartfelt felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR on the occasion of his 73rd birthday.

Akpabio, in a congratulatory message personally signed by him, described President Tinubu’s passion for Nigeria’s progress as contagious adding that his vision and dedication to Nigeria are inspiring.

“Your Excellency, on behalf of my family and constituents, the Senate and entire National Assembly, I wish you a happy 73rd birthday. Today marks a significant milestone in your life, and I am honoured to celebrate with you.

“Your leadership, vision and dedication to our great nation are truly inspiring. As Senate President, I have had the privilege of working closely with you, and I must say that your passion for Nigeria’s progress is contagious.

“I must confess that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is one of the greatest and audacious leaders Nigeria has produced. In your 73 years on earth, you have pursued a political career marked by a strong commitment to progressive democratic principles and the uncanny courage in tackling authoritarian regimes.

“Sir, I acknowledge your indelible role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, which successfully challenged the dominance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.

“There’s no doubt that your support was instrumental in the victory of Muhammadu Buhari and the APC in 2015 and 2019.

“As the President of Nigeria in the last two years, you have demonstrated astute leadership and as you advocate for democratic values and bold economic reforms that have started to yield dividends. With you in the driving seat, Nigeria is in safe hands and Nigerians could not have made a better choice in 2023.

“As you mark this special day in this period of Ramadan, I pray that the Almighty Allah grants you continued wisdom, strength and good health to steer our nation towards greater heights.

“Please accept my warmest congratulations and happy birthday, Mr. President”.

NSCDC Imo Debunks Allegation of Organ Harvesting

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NSCDC Imo Debunks Allegation of Organ Harvesting

 

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Imo State Command, has strongly refuted allegations of organ harvesting made by Chinonso Uba, popularly known as Nonso Nkwa.

Speaking with some group of Journalists in the state, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Cajetan Ahanonu, the NSCDC described the claims as “false, baseless, and misleading,” urging the public to disregard them.

According to him, on 18th March 2025, the Command received a distress call from Ogeri Ude, a staff member, reporting the sighting of a suspect, Stanley Ebo, who allegedly raped her 25-year-old daughter on 5 March 2025 at about 10:30 pm.

Following due procedure, NSCDC operatives were deployed, and the suspect was taken into custody after the victim identified him. However, during interrogation, Ebo denied the allegations, citing mistaken identity, he asserted.

The NSCDC explained that while in custody, the suspect developed serious health complications, including heart-related issues, vomiting, and blood-stooling. Due to the absence of medical facilities within the Command, his family applied for bail to seek urgent medical attention. The request was granted on humanitarian grounds, in line with legal provisions.

The NSCDC categorically stated that there was no case of organ harvesting, nor had any reports been filed to that effect. Furthermore, the original complainant, Ogeri Ude, expressed complete ignorance of the allegations circulating on social media.

Condemning the spread of misinformation, the Command called on journalists and media practitioners to verify facts before publication, warning against unverified narratives that could incite public unrest.

“Our doors remain open to public inquiries, and we urge journalists to uphold responsible and investigative journalism,” the statement read.

The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding citizens, protecting critical national assets, and maintaining public order. It assured the public that it would not be deterred by attempts to discredit its efforts through false allegations.

The Command also pledged continued collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure peace and security in Imo State.

Police Reacts, As More Disturbing Revelations Emerge On Tiger Base Police Unit Owerri

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Police Reacts, As More Disturbing Revelations Emerge On Tiger Base Police Unit Owerri

 

 

Following the exposition of shocking details of how detainees are treated at the Tiger Base Police Unit in the Imo state Police Command, the Imo State Police Command has in strong terms refuted the assertions in the investigation titles,” “, while dismissing them as unfounded and unprofessional.

While the Police firmly denies the allegations of high-handedness and inhuman treatment of detainees, investigative journalist, JULIANA FRANCIS, is not letting up and as such continues with the expose of what she describes as the frightful, inhuman treatment of detainees in the Anti-kidnapping Unit, known as Tiger Base Police in Owerri, Imo State Police Command.

She further tells how Nigeria Police Personnel’s avarice pushes them into getting involved in civil matters, which is against the law:

We Saw Detainees With Bullet Wounds, Pay N250,00 For Bail -Reverend

When this reporter met and spoke with Reverend Victor, he appeared to still be reeling in shock. He could not understand why he was arrested for being the ‘good guy’ in a scandalous incident.

He did not just express shock, he also expressed anger and disappointment with the Tiger Base Police’s unprofessionalism.

He said that he was tagged a hardened criminal because he tried to seek justice for a girl-child who was sexually molested by her grandfather. The Reverend explained that his uncle raped his granddaughter, and the girl would later cry out.

He remembered: “I am the chairman of our family, and my wife is the chairlady of the extended family. It was during a fact-finding mission that we shockingly discovered that the abuse of the granddaughter by my uncle started in Lagos State.

“My uncle was caught and arrested in Lagos, but he bribed his way out and quickly relocated to the village. It’s because he is an old man that the girl was sent to stay with him, and he continued with the violation.

“The girl, who is now 18 years old, could not take it anymore, cried out. We heard her cries, and along with the elders of our family, we called and questioned him. He got angry and picked a quarrel.

“He said my wife and I collaborated and asked the girl to lay false allegations against him. He went to court and sued us for defamation. He said we will pay him N50 million for damages. The elders told him that the accusing finger was pointing at him, that he should state the truth.”

On the 27th of October 2024 around 1:5 a.m., Police surrounded the Reverend’s house. They knocked and when he opened it, they were on him like fleas. He said that he was not even allowed to put on his slippers before he and his were bundled out. But he luckily, quickly alerted his relatives. The couple was dragged to Tiger Base Police.

Victor said sadly: “A policeman there asked why his colleagues would go to our house at that hour to arrest us, that they only arrest criminals at that hour. The way Tiger Base Police personnel carry out operations is not good. It gives the Nigeria Police a bad name. They are simply heartless and don’t care about humanity. During the short time we spent there, we saw people with gunshot wounds on their legs.

“Some of those policemen, after breaking a suspect’s leg, would start treating him. Again, they are supposed to investigate a matter before arrest, but they will arrest someone without investigating anything.

“Even if someone writes a petition, Police should investigate, so they don’t end up killing innocent people for nothing! For instance, my wife and I would have been killed if not for God. What crime did we commit? The State and Federal governments should know that what is going on at Tiger Base is wrong!

“The government should investigate that place and it should be dismantled. Sometimes, a church will be in session, these Tiger Base Policemen will storm the place, destroy the altar, and then whisk people away. I paid N250,000 for our bail.”

Tenant, Landlady Disagreement Ends Up At Tiger Base

Opara is another person dragged to Tiger Base, not because of a criminal matter, but because he had an altercation with his landlady. The landlady is the owner of, not just his shop, but also his apartment.

He said that his shop rent expired in July and he was supposed to renew in August, while the house rent would expire in December.

He was served a quit notice on both properties in March to vacate in June. His lawyer wrote to the landlady, asking that Opara be allowed to exhaust his running rent, but rather than comply, he was sued. The matter went to court, and in that process, his landlady disconnected his electricity. He and the landlady had a standoff over the disconnection.

He would later be arrested and taken to Tiger Base. He said that he was shocked witless by his IPO, identified as Esther’s hostility towards him.

His words: “The IPO assigned to my case is called Esther. When she came and called my name, I stepped forward and she screamed at me, ‘Thunder will fire you! You will die here! You’re a criminal! Your landlady said you should pack out, you don’t want to, do you know how much they sell cement.’

“I pleaded with her to allow me to explain my side of the incident, but she refused to listen, rather she continued to tell me that I would die in prison. She drafted my statement. When my wife, her brother and my lawyer came to start processing my bail, I was asked to pay N700,000 for bail, but after many negotiations, it was reduced to N200,000. I was arrested on the 24th and they collected my phone. I was released on the 30th.

“I was asked to sign an undertaking that I would vacate on or before the 30th of December while my rent was still running. The Police said if I failed to vacate, they would rearrest me. I wrote the undertaking, and my lawyer was there.

“I pointed out to them that it was a civil case, but the police said that even if it was, I should have vacated the apartment after a quit notice was issued. They asked me if the building belonged to me and if I knew how much a plot of land is sold.”

Activist Detained For Bringing Food For Detainee

Mazi Amadi Innocent Obi is a human rights activist once detained at Tiger Base; his offence was that he brought food for a young relative of his called Chuks, who was detained there.

He explained that Chuks and some youths fought over land and Chuks sustained serious injuries. Eyewitnesses told Obi that Chuks and three other youngsters were taken away and nobody knew who took them and where they were taken.

Obi said: “We started looking for them and went to hospitals, but we finally found Chuks at the Police hospital in Owerri, he was on a drip. That night we found him; he couldn’t talk. He was covered in blood.”

The activist said that when he went the following day to visit Chuks, he was surprised to hear that he had been dragged to Tiger Base by some police personnel despite his life-threatening injuries.

Obi initially did not know that it was operatives from Tiger Base who came to pick him up. He started looking for Chuks and then went to the Imo State Police Command Headquarters. He said that he had to pay N5000 before he was told where Chuks was being held.

His words: “I had to pay the media section of the police headquarters N5000 just for them to make a call, to know where Chuks was being held. I moved to Tiger Base.”

When he was heading out, he ensured that he went with food for Chuks and the other youngsters. Obi, reflecting on the day of the event, leading to the arrest of Chuks and others, said: “The day Police came into the village, they arrested a whole lot of people, just to make sure that the money they would later request from the arrested people would be huge.

“In the evening, I made sure to go with food enough for the boys. After giving them the food, the police detained me. I didn’t commit any crime, just that I came to give Chuks and others food. They removed my shoe and everything and just like that I was detained for two days.

“Over 30 of us crammed into a room. We couldn’t breathe; it was a dead zone. In the night, people will be fanning themselves. The cell next to me is called Dead End, people die there every day. Many of them were hungry and I saw them eating their faeces. They ate poop!

“I was there for two days, and it was a traumatising two days. I got an infection within those two days, and I suffered it for almost three months. I had to look for ways to send messages to my colleagues to come and bail me. When I came out, I told our village people that we should mobilise to get those boys out, but our people ran away because they were scared of Tiger Base Police. Finally, my colleague, Majorie Ezihe got every one of us out.”

Detainees Were Shot In My Presence, I Escaped Rape – Mary

Mary was arrested along the road and taken to Tiger Base Police and spent over nine months in detention, while her family members were frantically looking for her. She would later find out that she was arrested because the police alleged her of being an IPOB member’s girlfriend.

She said: “I didn’t commit any crime, they were looking for someone and just because that person was on my phone contact list, they arrested and tortured me. After I was taken to Tiger Base Police in Owerri, I received countless slaps, beatings, and punches, of which I’m still suffering from the effect to date. I am always feeling chest and neck pains.

“The neck pains are the worst for me. I’ve been going to the hospital, but doctors cannot seem to understand the pain or find a solution to it. I have been on drugs, and I cannot sneeze well and cannot sing beyond a certain pitch.

“My vocal cord was affected during the torture. I escaped being raped twice by policemen at Tiger Base. I slept on the bare floor of the cell. For all IPOB cases, we were given food once a day.

“Detainees are killed after staying in detention for months and even innocent people are paraded as criminals or IPOB. Detainees killed by the Police are mostly innocent of any crime. Even if someone is innocent, the person will be paraded, along with some weapons that the person knows nothing about.

“Whenever a detainee is called out by 8:pm, just know that the person is gone; he is never coming back. When I was there, I heard about a pit where these policemen dump the corpses of killed detainees, but I don’t know its location. Even as I am speaking with you, these killings are still happening! It is even worse now than before. The Commander of that Tiger Base, Mr Oladimeji, is a very heartless man. He has killed many innocent souls.

“He comes to the cells twice daily to count us, both male and female. Each time we go for counting, he takes notes of faces that had been long in detention. If he has seen someone who has been there for a long, he would tell his policemen that he doesn’t want to see the person next time he comes to count. It means they should kill the person.

“Many young Nigerians have died inside that place, killed by these policemen. They have shot detainees before my eyes. Many souls were lost! Female detainees, including myself, do their laundry, and dishes, and sweep and clean offices.

“Detainees are hanged and almost all detainees there are tagged as killers, criminals, terrorists, kidnappers! Those were all the trump-up charges against me.”

Businessman Arrested Twice Over Same Case, Extorted N700,000

This reporter caught up with Mr Edu, a businessman based in Anambra State, who was arrested and taken to Tiger Base Police in Imo State, due to an unsatisfactory business dealing between him and his customer.

It was a civil case. The incident happened in 2023. He disclosed that he was arrested twice over the same matter and in both instances, he was heavily extorted.

He explained that he sent money to his customer, who confirmed receiving the payment. The customer, however, later claimed that the complete payment earlier noticed in his account, was no longer so. The matter was taken to the market union, which launched an investigation.

Before the union was done, Policemen from Imo State came to pick him up in Anambra State. He was later released and given a date for what the police termed an interview.

When he came for the interview on the 23rd of April, the police who arrested him, granted him bail, but the complainant was not satisfied, thereafter Edu was rearrested and then detained from April to June.

He recounted: “It was on June 4th that the Police said that I would be charged to court, I said it was okay. However, rather than take me to court, I was moved to Tiger Base. When we got there, the detainees were like zombies, half dead and half alive. Some were just skeletons. It was a danger zone. Although it was only two days I spent at Tiger Base, I took to praying to God to get me out of there, not to allow me to die there. I almost died.

“Every late night, police will come and take some detainees away; you will think they were being called because of documentation issues, but they will never return! The cells are tight. Mere touching of detainees there, you will contract infection. I contracted an infection there. This is 2025 and I am still treating myself for the infection I got there.”

Edu said that he would not have been released if not for someone reaching out to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, who screamed at his men, asking why they detained Edu for over two months over a civil matter.

Edu said: “The first time I was arrested, I was detained for a month, that is 30 days. The second time, I was detained for two months, that’s like 60 days. Due to the intervention of the CP, I was told to get someone to take my bail. During my brief sojourn at Tiger Base, while fearing for my life, I got to listen to detainees I met there sharing their experiences.

“Some of them were tortured using a filing machine! I even got to see it with my own eyes. There is a place where the police have an engine outside the building. If they want to torture someone, if they want you to confess to a crime you didn’t commit, they will put your hand into the filing machine.

“It would be filing your body. Removing your body. Some detainees are tied and hanged. The torture there is just appalling. If you see the detainees at Tiger Base, you will weep!

“I met a man there who had spent over a year in detention. He said that he bought a car and one day while driving, police stopped him, claiming that the car was stolen by someone and sold to this detainee. He was arrested and dumped at Tiger Base.

“He told me so many horrible things going on there and then asked me to pray to God. He said that it was only God that could make the police release me from that hell. Some families were packed inside, along with their children.

“If you have a family quarrel, the relative that has the financial upper hand can cause you and your children to be dragged to that place. I saw children and old folks more than 80 years old in detention there. They were packed in the passage with their families. I saw children between the ages of six and seven. For the first arrest, I paid N400,000 for bail and the second arrest, I paid N300,000 for bail.”

I Almost Lost An Eye In Hands Of Tiger Base Police Personnel – Mr Promise

Mr Promise is another victim of Tiger Base Police Personnel. According to him, his boss had a marital squabble with his wife. The wife, in anger, went to Tiger Base and asked the police to arrest her husband. Unfortunately, on the day they came to grab her husband, he was not at home.

The policemen instead bundled Promise out of the house and then subjected him to severe beating.

Promise narrated: “They beat me recklessly, almost damaged one of my eyes. I was punched from different angles. I was detained for two weeks and three days.

“If you’re having an issue with someone and the person took the matter to Tiger Base Police, just understand that the person meant to kill you. Tiger Base Police is not a place for anyone to go. I would rather prefer to be locked up in prison than be detained at Tiger Base Police.

“It is the worst place for anyone to be. The place is like hell and the policemen operate like kidnappers. Once you’re arrested, they won’t allow you to reach out to your family members or friends. Many people are suffering there, and many have been there for months.

“After my release, I had been going to hospital because of the eye. The federal government should do everything possible to scrap or disband the Tiger Base Police. The way suspects are treated there is dreadful! When I was in detention, everyone they brought in to join us had injuries. I don’t know if beating and torturing people mercilessly is part of their rules there.”

Politician Kidnapped In Abuja By Tiger Base Police, Denied Lawyer, Medicare

Mrs Excel Ihekweme narrated how her husband, Dr Fabian Ihekweme, a former commissioner for foreign and international Affairs in Imo State, was ‘kidnapped’ in Abuja by operatives of Tiger Base Police.

Excel explained that her husband was arrested for criticising the poor governance going on in Imo State.

The Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodima, allegedly miffed by the criticism of his former commissioner, wrote a petition against Fabian to the Police in Abuja, but it was allegedly discarded for lacking merit.

When the Police in Abuja refused to play ball, Tiger Base Police in Imo State were called and they stormed Abuja, and arrested Fabian. In the case of Fabian, Tiger Base Police were accused of illegal arrest, unlawful detention, and denying Fabian rights to Medicare and a lawyer.

Excel said: “We live in Abuja, so the governor sent a police team from Imo state to come to Abuja to arrest my husband. The Police in Abuja had earlier refused to arrest my husband, saying that his writings were within his Fundamental Human Rights. The Policemen from Tiger Base came to Abuja and abducted him from our house and took him to Imo State on the 27th of November 2024, till date (January, 2025).

“The Police refused to grant him bail and also refused to charge him in court. When he is visited by his sister, the police wouldn’t give them privacy for him to tell her what he is going through. However, the fact is that he is being held there illegally. These policemen just picked him up unannounced. He didn’t spend Christmas and New Year with us.”

Another part of Glory Okolie Judgement

Gloria Okolie Alleged Of Being IPOB Spy, Detained For Over 10 Months

The ordeal of Gloria Okolie will not be forgotten in a hurry by Nigerians and major Civil Society Organisations. Okolie was arrested on allegations of being a spy and girlfriend of IPOB.

The Police alleged that her bank account was being used to receive money from donors and sponsors of IPOB. She was taken to Tiger Base Police, and spent months there, before being moved to IRT Headquarters in Abuja.

The 21-year-old girl was arrested while on an errand for her parents. She and the commercial cyclist, who carried her on that day, were arrested. The police never reached out to her parents to tell them that Okolie had been arrested.

The distraught parents worried sick that something terrible had happened to Okolie, ran from pillar to post, searching for her, including going to police stations and mortuaries.

They had already given up hope of finding her when the cyclist, who was released by the police, went to tell them that Okolie was in the detention facility, sweeping, cooking, and doing the laundry for the police personnel.

Outraged human rights activists and lawyers had swung into action, working round the clock to secure her bail. All legal overtures made by lawyers and activists toward securing her release from prison were blocked by the police.

Eventually, she was granted bail on 23rd March 2022. There are speculations that she could have been violated by the police personnel.

The ECOWAS Court of Justice, in a judgment delivered, held the Federal Republic of Nigeria accountable for the unlawful detention and mistreatment of Okolie.

According to the applicants, Okolie was denied access to legal counsel, subjected to forced labour, and physically abused during her detention. The applicants argued that these actions breached several human rights instruments.

The court also awarded ₦10 million in compensation and issued directives to safeguard human rights.

Note: Some detainees who spoke with the reporter requested their real names should not be used to avoid being rearrested or targeted by Tiger Base Police Personnel.

Anambra Police Assure Muslims of Security During Eid al-Fitr Festival

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Anambra Police Assure Muslims of Security During Eid al-Fitr Festival

 

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka.

The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has assured the Muslim faithful in the state of adequate security during the Eid al-Fitr festival.

The police commissioner provided this assurance on Friday while briefing journalists about the activities of the command in its fight against crime over the past two weeks.

According to Orutugu, the police, as the lead agency in internal security, will continue to collaborate with the military, other security agencies, and local vigilante groups to enhance operational capacity, maintain security dominance, and ensure the safety of all residents.

He also conveyed the Anambra State Police Command’s heartfelt wishes to Muslim brothers and sisters worldwide, especially those in the state, for a joyful Eid al-Fitr celebration.

Orutugu highlighted the successful joint efforts with sister agencies, Anambra State Vigilantes, and other security operatives, which led to the rescue of four kidnapped victims, including a Catholic reverend father, and the arrest of over ten suspects.

During the period under review, the police recovered ten firearms of assorted brands, sixteen expended cartridges, forty-six live rounds of ammunition, four vehicles, and other incriminating items.

He said three of the recovered vehicles have already been returned to their rightful owners following proper identification.

Additionally, on March 27, 2025, at approximately 3:05 p.m., operatives from the B Division in Awka, while conducting a Stop and Search operation at Dynamo Junction in Ifite Awka, arrested one Richard Onwugbufo from Ugbulu village, Oraifite. They recovered a Beretta pistol with three live rounds of ammunition from him.

South East Governors To Meet Tinubu Over Honor To Late Humphrey Nwosu As Arch Bishop Chukwuma Carpets Oshiomole / Senate

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South East Governors To Meet Tinubu Over Honor To Late Humphrey Nwosu As Arch Bishop Chukwuma Carpets Oshiomole / Senate

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka.

Twenty four hours after the Nigerian Senate refused to honor the former National Chairman of the then National Electoral Commission NEC Late Prof Humphrey Nwosu the five governors of the South East have resolved to meet with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to request for a befitting National honor to him .

This is coming as the former Arch Bishop of Enugu Anglican Diocese Rt Rev Emmanuel Chukwuma has carpeted Sen Adams Oshiomole and the entire Senate for accusing Late Nwosu of annulling the June 12th 1993 Presidentl election in the country.

According to Gov Charles Soludo of Anambra state and Minister for Works Engr Dave Umahi who represented President Ahmed Bola Tinubu at the funeral of late Prof Humphrey Nwosu;

“We must learn to change our style and devise a style of dialogue to get what we need from the government at the center and not through fighting and attacks ”

“For us in Anambra and the Old Aguata Union made up of the forty five Communities in the three local government areas we shall honor and celebrate our son ”

“After the funeral we the South East Governors would meet with the President over the National honor to our brother and we are sure that he will grant us that request ” Soludo said.

Engr Dave Umahi on his part explained that *Mr President has so much value for our brother Prof Humphrey Nwosu and in his massage we are celebrating him for his profound contributions to the Nigeria democracy and we shall continue to cherish him and his achievements”

“This is because he played very vitals roles in the involvement of the Nigeria democracy and governance and white we were here the Secretary to Government of the Federation called to asked how we are and he told me that the family made two requests and after discussions it would be granted and when that is done I will communicate to your Governor about the outcome ” he noted.

Governor of Abia state Dr Alex Otti observed that” Nigeria’ is celebrating an icon of our democracy and that is why I came to join my brother Prof Charles Soludo to honor this great Nigerian who wrote his name in the sand of time and I pray that at the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ it would be a triumph for our brother Late Prof Humphrey Nwosu ” he stated.

Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma in his massage described Sen Oshiomole statements as nonsensical.

“That statement by Oshiomole is nonsensical because Humphrey Nwosu did not annul the June 12th election and former President Babangida has owned up that he annulled the election ”

” Until Nigerians apologize to Late Abiola and late Humphrey Nwosu their spirits will not rest ”

“Again what is happening in the North is because Nigerians are yet to apologize to Ndigbo and that is why the spirit and Igbo blood will continue to cause Boko Haram ”

“Weather you honor Prof Humphrey Nwosu or not we shall honor our own brother and for the position of the Senate is highly very unfortunate and I know it is because Humphrey Nwosu is Igbo” he said.

Bishop Of Aguata Diocese Anglican Communion Rt Rev Samurai Chukwudi Ezeofor at his sermon lamented what he described as the hopeless fate of the Nigerian Nation contending that those dreams and aspirations of the country have been shattered.

“This country has also produced men and women that would have liberated Nigeria such as late Prof Humphrey Nwosu”

“But today Professors rig election for school drop outs and drug barons and you say that this country will be good ”

“Our politicians have bastardized our university education and they decide who would be Vice Chancellors our Universities and the position of Vice Chancellor has become a political appointment ”

“Prof Chinua Achebe wrote a book titled there was a country but I say there is a country and in that book our brother lamented about the lost in the country and NIgeria has lost the essence of or dreams and I don’t know if the cause is from our politicians ”

“Prof Wole Soyinka at the then University of Ife lamented that his generation is a wasted generation while late musician Sunny Okosun asked which way Nigeria’ ann one wonders what he would have sang had it been that he is alive today ” he said.

Present at the funeral include Presidential candidate of the Labor Party Mr Peter Obi, former governor of Imo state Chief Emeka Ihedioha and Sen Victor Umeh of Anambra Central District.

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