A coalition of activists, human rights groups, and concerned citizens has called for the urgent release of Chizorom Harrison Ofoegbu, a digital content creator and social critic known as “Ijele Speaks,” who has been detained for over a year at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos.
Ofoegbu faces allegations of “threat to life, defamation, and cybercrime,” but the coalition insists his detention is an abuse of legal processes aimed at silencing dissent. They allege his charges stem from his criticism of two influential religious figures—Evangelist Ebuka Obi and Rev. Prof. Victor Onukaogu.
At a media briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the coalition condemned what they described as a “targeted persecution” of Ofoegbu for challenging powerful institutions.
The statement was jointly signed by Abraham Daniel, Genesis Eririoma Head (Online Community of Irreligious People of Nigeria), Agena Robert Ande, Rex Elanu (Take It Back Movement, Abuja Chapter) and Gerald Katchy (INAHURAT)
The groups raised alarm over Ofoegbu’s deteriorating health, revealing he suffers from kidney failure and requires urgent medical attention. Despite his condition, they claim he has been denied proper treatment, putting his life at risk.
“While we believe in the right to seek legal redress, we are alarmed by the apparent abuse of legal processes to silence dissenting voices,” the coalition stated. “His health is failing, and his continued detention without medical care threatens not just his right to a fair trial, but his very right to life.”
Read also: Again, activists demand reparation, compensation for Africa’s climate justice
Commercial motorcycles ban: Coalition of civil society groups backs Sanwo-Olu
The coalition has written to the Attorney General of the Federation, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), demanding: Immediate medical intervention for Ofoegbu; A review of his legal proceedings to ensure due process; Protection for digital creators and activists who speak out against injustice and Freedom of expression is not a crime. Illness should not be a death sentence in prison. Justice delayed is justice denied,” they declared.
The coalition emphasized that Ofoegbu’s case is not isolated but reflects a growing crackdown on dissent in Nigeria.
“This is about every young Nigerian who dares to speak freely and risks imprisonment or death for exercising a constitutional right,” they said.
They called on media houses, human rights organizations, and civil society groups to amplify their demands and ensure Ofoegbu’s case is not overlooked.
The coalition vowed to sustain pressure until Ofoegbu is freed and justice is served.
“We stand united in demanding his immediate release and proper medical care. Nigeria must not become a graveyard for truth-tellers,” they stated.
