Prominent journalist and activist, Mazi Chinonso Uba (Nonsonkwa), has detailed his traumatic arrest and subsequent 54-day detention, shedding light on the systemic injustices and inhumane conditions plaguing Imo State’s justice system and prisons.
According to Nonsonkwa, he was ambushed on October 20, 2024, by Ebubeagu militants and Tiger Base officers led by Chidiebere Nwosu near Teachers’ House on PH Road. He was thrown into the trunk of a Lexus vehicle and taken to the State CID, where he was held without being informed of his charges.
The following day, he was presented with three petitions: a poorly constructed accusation of arson, an allegation of incitement against the government for exposing LGA chairmen’s forced resignations, and a claim of planning to cause anarchy by organizing protests against police extortion. Despite making his statement, Nonsonkwa was hastily arraigned on October 23 at Magistrate Court 1 on treason charges—outside the court’s jurisdiction—and remanded in prison custody.
At the Federal Correctional Center Owerri, Nonsonkwa interacted with inmates, uncovering harrowing stories of abuse, injustice, and neglect. He revealed that over 1,000 youths are languishing in prison, with about 800 awaiting trial for years—some as long as a decade—due to systemic delays and corruption.
“Many are innocent but were condemned because their accusers bribed the police. IPOs add false charges to ensure remand,” Nonsonkwa stated. He accused Tiger Base operatives of brutality, recounting how one officer used a plank to assault a dying detainee rejected by prison authorities. The victim died weeks later.
He also criticized the deplorable prison conditions, including inadequate feeding, lack of medical supplies, and dilapidated facilities, while commending the prison staff for their efforts despite limited resources.
Nonsonkwa announced plans to champion prison reforms in 2025, focusing on:
– Providing legal aid to inmates awaiting trial and helping them meet bail conditions.
– Establishing a monthly Prisoners Welfare Partnership to support inmates.
– Advocating for community service sentences for minor offenses to reduce overcrowding.
– Urging Governor Hope Uzodimma to release elderly and long-serving inmates through his prerogative powers.
He called on the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Imo State to expedite the trial process for inmates, particularly those from Okigwe and Orlu.
Nonsonkwa decried the use of faceless petitions to silence opposition voices, describing it as a “childish political tactic.” He urged the Imo government to bridge the communication gap with citizens instead of attacking critics.
“I remain at the forefront of justice, armed with the weapon of truth to defend Ndi Imo against political gamblers,” he vowed.
Nonsonkwa expressed gratitude to his legal team, media colleagues, human rights organizations, and supporters who stood by him during his ordeal. He also appreciated the prison staff for their humane treatment.
The activist’s account underscores the urgent need for justice system reforms and accountability in Imo State to protect citizens’ rights and dignity.
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