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A Federal High Court in Owerri has declared as illegal and wrongful the designation of a member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Chika Edoziem as a wanted person, terrorist and insurgent.
The court also nullified his resignation as a kidnapper, and violent criminal by the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff.
A statement by the Lead Counsel of IPOB and human rights activist, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, said the court consequently awarded ₦5 million in damages to Edoziem for the infringement of his fundamental right to dignity of human person.
Delivering his judgement in Suit No: FHC/OW/FHR/29/2024, between Mazi Chika Edoziem Vs the Federal Government, Justice Iniekenimi Nicholas Oweibo, affirmed that the March 22, 2024, publication of his name and photograph in the Ministry of Defence’s First Edition of 2024, as a security threat, was done in gross violation of his constitutionally guaranteed right to dignity of human person, and as such, unconstitutional.
The Judge further directed the Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff to immediately retract the unconstitutional declaration of Mazi Chika Edoziem as a “terrorist”, “insurgent”, “kidnapper”, “violent criminal” and “wanted person”, and to issue an unreserved public apology in two national newspapers to him.
Ejiofor described the judgement as a triumph of the rule of law.
He said, “Notably, among the many names listed in the said Notice, Mazi Chika Edoziem was the only one who successfully challenged this illegal publication or inclusion of his revered name in the offending publication.
“His global reputation as a peace advocate stands in sharp contrast to the blatant false allegations. This judgment is a strong statement against unjust profiling and underscores the importance of due process in security matters.
“Security agencies must focus on proper profiling to identify actual criminals rather than targeting innocent citizens. The real perpetrators of crime operate in known locations, and tackling insecurity requires collective responsibility beyond just the security forces.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my dedicated colleagues in Chambers whose relentless efforts made this victory possible. Special thanks to Ezigbo Umuchineke for their unwavering support and prayers, and whose peaceful conduct has enabled seamless defence in matters affecting genuine and peaceful agitators.
“Above all, I thank Almighty God for His guidance and protection throughout the proceedings.
Justice has prevailed, and we march forward with renewed faith in the rule of law.”
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