The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarms over an alleged conspiracy to frame two prominent opposition figures, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere and Uche Nnadi, accusing them of bribing judicial officers. The accusations come amid ongoing political turmoil within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State and the APP’s recent victory in local government elections.
According to HURIWA, this plot is linked to Ugochinyere’s vocal criticism of the PDP crisis in Rivers and his involvement in exposing corruption, particularly land racketeering in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The group has condemned the alleged conspiracy, calling it an attempt to silence dissenting voices in Nigerian politics.
In a statement signed by HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the organization emphasized the seriousness of the situation, 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 further argued that the accusations against Ugochinyere and Nnadi were part of a larger plan to undermine their credibility and suppress opposition forces. Onwubiko added, “This is not just about them; it’s about stifling opposition and creating an environment where truth cannot prevail.” The group called on the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the claims and resist letting politically motivated narratives influence public opinion.
In defense, one of Ugochinyere’s lawyers, Maxwell Opara, dismissed the allegations as part of a broader strategy to discredit his client’s advocacy for transparency and accountability, especially concerning land deals in Abuja. Opara reiterated Ugochinyere’s commitment to exposing corruption.
Ugo Apumaga, the National Publicity Secretary of the Action Peoples Party (APP), also responded to the claims, labeling them “baseless” and accusing the accusers of attempting to distract from the party’s mission. Apumaga reaffirmed the APP’s stance against corruption and commitment to justice.
HURIWA urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against efforts to manipulate public opinion and suppress opposition, asserting that the allegations against Ugochinyere were unfounded and politically motivated. The group called for a fair and transparent investigation, free from political bias, to ensure that justice is served and to protect the rights of individuals critical of the government.
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