A coalition of civil society organisations under the umbrella of the Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Emmanuel Acha, a prominent human rights defender and Chairperson of the Enugu State Civil Society Network, who has been held in detention for over three months under what they describe as politically motivated charges.
The call was made on Monday during a high-level media briefing on the gross violation of human rights and suppression of civic participation in Ebonyi State, held at the Conference Hall of the Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), Plot 44, St. Michael Road, Aba, Abia State.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, a leading member of AGFCS, decried what he described as “the alarming use of state power to criminalize dissent,” warning that Acha’s arrest is a clear attempt to silence civic voices.
Comrade Emmanuel Acha was reportedly arrested around 5:00 am in March 2025 at his residence in Enugu and transferred to the Abakaliki Correctional Centre in Ebonyi State. His arrest followed a lawsuit he filed in December 2024 (Suit No: FHC/AI/CS/FHR/221/24), challenging the actions of the Ebonyi State Government in relation to the ongoing Effium-Ezza land conflict in Ohaukwu LGA.
Instead of responding to the legal suit through proper judicial processes, Acha was detained without a court warrant and arraigned under Charge No: HKW/27C/2025 for alleged illegal possession of arms and murder. Civil society organisations say the judge presiding over the case hails from a rival community involved in the conflict, further casting doubt on the fairness of the trial.
According to the AGFCS, Acha was physically assaulted and psychologically tortured during his arrest. No evidence was reportedly found against him, and he has been denied bail, proper medical care, and legal access since his detention. These, the group said, are clear violations of Sections 34, 35, and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect the rights to dignity, liberty, and expression.
The coalition expressed concern that the repression of Acha is emblematic of a broader assault on civic space in Nigeria. “This is not just about one man. It is about the future of democracy, civic participation, and justice in this country,” said Namdi Elekwachi, another member of the Action Group.
Pastor Nwokeocha Alozie Innocent of the Initiative for Ideal Development and Emancipatory Leadership in Nigeria described Acha’s ordeal as a “litmus test for democracy,” warning that no government should operate as if above the law.
Chibundu Uchegbu, Program Director of Better Community Life Initiative, emphasized that elected officials must be accountable and respect the rule of law. “Comrade Acha did what any responsible citizen should do—he went to court,” he said.
The civil society groups made the following demands to Governor Francis Nwifuru and relevant state authorities:
1. Immediate and unconditional release of Emmanuel Acha and others arrested in relation to the Effium-Ezza conflict.
2. Disciplinary action against police and state actors responsible for the abuse and illegal detention.
3. Withdrawal of all politically motivated charges against Acha.
4. Provision of urgent medical care and legal access for Acha.
5. Inclusion of independent civil society and international observers in monitoring peace efforts in Ebonyi.
6. Full respect for the constitutional rights of citizens to seek justice and participate in civic life.
The coalition also disclosed that it submitted a petition to Governor Nwifuru on July 7, 2025, but has received no response. A petition has also been sent to the National Human Rights Commission to initiate an independent investigation and ensure accountability.
Participating Organisations
Signatories to the joint statement include:
Spaces for Change (S4C)
Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC)
Restorative Justice for Africa (REJA-Initiative)
Partnership for Social and Environmental Development Initiative (P4SEDI)
Open Arms Initiative for Sustainable Development (OPAISD)
Centre for Justice, Empowerment & Development (C4J)
Peace Point Development Foundation (PPDF)
Better Community Life Initiative (BECOLIN)
TruORGANIC Initiative for Social & Communities Development
Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD)
Centre for Community Empowerment in Conflict and Peacebuilding
The press briefing ended with a strong appeal to the media, the Nigerian public, and the international community to amplify the call for Acha’s release and protect the civic space in Nigeria.
“This moment defines whether we protect our democracy or allow fear and repression to take over,” the coalition stated.
