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The recent abduction of Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), by operatives of the Ebonyi State Police Command has drawn alarming parallels to the earlier abductions of two other prominent critics of government, Chinonso Uba (popularly known as Nonso Nkwa) and Fabian Ihekweme (Omu).
The trio, all vocal critics of government, were abducted in strikingly similar circumstances, raising concerns about a possible pattern of repression targeting dissenting voices in the South-East.
Comrade Igboayaka was forcefully taken by armed men on the evening of Saturday, February 8, 2025, in Owerri. His abduction mirrors the earlier incidents involving Nonso Nkwa, a popular radio personality and outspoken critic of the state government, and Fabian Ihekweme, a politician and activist. Both men were seized in similar fashion.
The only slight difference perhaps is the fact that while Nonsonkwa and Ihekweme’s abductions were masterminded by the Imo state government, Igboayaka’s abduction was reportedly ordered by the Ebonyi State government
The abductions have sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from civil society groups, human rights organizations, and the general public. Many have pointed to the similarities in the modus operandi of the abductors, noting that the victims were all prominent critics of state governments and were taken in a manner that suggests a deliberate attempt to silence dissent.
In a press statement, the Igbo National Council (INC) expressed deep concern over the recurring pattern of abductions targeting government critics. “The abduction of Comrade Igboayaka, following the earlier kidnappings of Nonso Nkwa and Fabian Ihekweme, raises serious questions about the safety of those who dare to speak truth to power. We call on the Nigerian Police Force and other relevant authorities to investigate these incidents thoroughly and ensure the safety of all divergent opinion holders,” the statement read.
Human rights activists have also weighed in, describing the abductions as a troubling trend in the South-East, that undermines democracy and freedom of expression.
Apparently, Igboayaka’s safety and well-being have now become issues of concern to observers following the manner he was whisked away.
This was path walked by Nonsonkwa and Ihekweme. While Nonsonkwa stuck to his gun after his ordeal, Ihekweme’s current stand is yet to be ascertained as he is reportedly getting medical attention and cannot authoritatively be credited with the volte face contained in a certain apology letter disseminated by government operatives until he is fit to have his say.
It is hoped that after the demands of justice, fairness and good conscience have been satisfied, that Igboayaka will still return to base, unbroken.
