Kehinde Fajobi
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over an alleged plot to frame prominent opposition figures, including Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, spokesperson for the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), and Uche Nnadi, National Chairman of the Action Peoples Party (APP), with accusations of bribing judicial officers.
The accusations follow Ugochinyere’s outspoken criticism of the crisis within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the political unrest in Rivers State, which led to APP’s victory in local council elections as well as recent revelations about land racketeering in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In a statement signed by HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group condemned the alleged plot, stating, “It is alarming that such a scheme could be orchestrated against individuals merely exercising their rights to free speech and political expression. This is a clear attempt to silence dissenting voices.”
HURIWA also stressed that the accusations against Ugochinyere and Nnadi seemed to be a strategic effort to undermine their credibility and stifle opposition.
“This is not just about them; it’s about stifling opposition and creating an environment where truth cannot prevail,” Onwubiko added.
The group has called for a thorough investigation into the matter, urging authorities not to let politically motivated narratives shape public perception.
In response, Ugochinyere’s lawyer, Maxwell Opara, rejected the allegations, calling them “a desperate attempt by those threatened by his advocacy for transparency and accountability.”
Opara reaffirmed Ugochinyere’s commitment to exposing corruption, particularly regarding land deals in Abuja.
APP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ugo Apumaga, also condemned the accusations, saying, “These baseless accusations are meant to distract us from our mission. We stand firm against corruption and will continue our fight for justice.”
HURIWA has urged Nigerians to stay alert to tactics used to manipulate public opinion and suppress opposition, calling for the dismissal of the allegations against Ugochinyere as unfounded.