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The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has received deeply troubling reports of grave human rights violations allegedly committed by a self-styled vigilante leader in Egwedu Autonomous Community, Atta, Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State.
Following receipt of the reports, RULAAC sought verification through credible media sources in Imo State and contacts within the affected community. While some allegations are yet to be officially confirmed by law enforcement authorities, information obtained suggests a pattern of serious abuses that demand urgent intervention by the Nigeria Police Force.
RULAAC is particularly concerned by allegations that a vigilante leader, Mr. Chibuike Duru (also known as “Nwagbenta”), is operating an illegal detention facility, extorting residents – especially market women – and exercising unlawful authority over civil and criminal matters in the community in the absence of effective police presence.
Reports further allege that:
– Residents are subjected to arbitrary arrest and detention
– Victims are required to pay money for release and even to deliver food to detainees
– Armed vigilantes openly carry prohibited weapons
– At least two deaths have been linked to the operations of this group in recent months
RULAAC has also been made aware of a formal petition submitted by a human rights lawyer to the Nigeria Police Force and the National Human Rights Commission, calling for the immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of Mr. Duru and others involved.
Equally disturbing are claims that some local authorities have been either unable or unwilling to intervene, allegedly citing the vigilante leader’s backing by powerful interests. RULAAC emphasizes that no individual or group is above the law, and no claim of authority – formal or informal – can justify violations of fundamental human rights.
*Our Demands*
RULAAC therefore calls on the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, to:
1. Immediately deploy officers to Egwedu Community to restore lawful policing
2. Conduct a prompt, impartial, and thorough investigation into all allegations
3. Dismantle any illegal detention facilities operating in the area
4. Arrest and prosecute, in accordance with the law, anyone found responsible
5. Provide protection to victims, witnesses, and community members who may fear reprisals
The Nigeria Police Act, 2020, places a duty on the Police to protect lives and property, prevent crime, and uphold human rights. Allowing armed groups or vigilantes to operate parallel systems of justice undermines the rule of law and fuels fear, insecurity, and impunity.
RULAAC will continue to monitor developments closely and urges the Police authorities to act decisively to reassure residents that the law – not violence or intimidation – governs Imo State.
