… Calls for Respect for Rule of Law
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the ongoing unlawful detention of Prince Kenechukwu Okoroeze by the Department of State Security Service’s (DSS), despite a valid court judgment in suit No: FHC/AWK/CS/62/2022 ordering his immediate release.
HURIWA in a statement by its national coordinator acknowledged receiving a letter from the legal representatives detailing the circumstances surrounding his arrest and subsequent detention by the DSS since October 11, 2021.
The Legal representatives of Mrs. Perpetua Adaora Okoroeze highlighted the prolonged and unlawful detention of Prince Kenechukwu Okoroeze by the DSS since October 11, 2021. Despite a Federal High Court judgment in suit No: FHC/AWK/CS/62/2022 ordering his immediate release, the DSS has yet to comply.
The group lamented DSS’s blatant disregard for rule-of-law and judicial independence. The organization emphasized that disobedience undermines Nigeria’s democratic principles and tarnishes its image on an international level and thereby reducing Nigeria to banana republic.
HURIWA noted that continued detainment violates fundamental human rights enshrined under Sections 33,34, and 41of the1999Constitution of Nigeria (as amended). The premier civil rights advocacy group emphasized adherence to rule-of-law while respecting decisions made by competent jurisdiction courts.
The right group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and order the DSS to comply with court’s judgement releasing Prince Kenechukwu Okoroeze .
The group stressed that failure would erode confidence in Nigeria’s justice system exacerbating human rights violations perpetrated by state actors.
In support for Prince Kenechukwu Okoroeze’s release, HURIWA cited Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenant Civil & Political Rights relevant international laws conventions which Nigeria is signatory. The organization underscores importance upholding these principles safeguarding dignity all individuals regardless status or circumstance.
HURIWA which sought UN Human Rights Council intervention ensuring justice accountability for actions taken against Prince Kenechukwu Okoroese highlighted recent discussions at UN Member Nations’ Feedback on Nigeria’s Human Rights record during country’s 45th Universal Periodic Review (UPR45). While some nations acknowledged efforts addressing human rights issues, others raised concerns about accountability, vulnerable groups protection, and adherence international human rights standards.
Hence, the need for Nigeria to take concrete actions to improve accountability and respect for human rights uphold the rule of law. The continued detention of Prince Kenechukwu Okoroese undermines credibility on global stage threatening democratic institutions.
The right group reiterated commitment to defending human rights and holding government agencies accountable
HURIWA called on President Tinubu and the DSS to prioritize rule-of-law, respect for human-rights, releasing Prince Kenechukwu Okoroese ensuring justice fairness for all Nigerians.
