Ohanaeze Launches Rights Panel Over Alleged Abuses Against Igbo

ENUGU — The Global Executive Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has inaugurated a Committee on Human Rights to investigate alleged rights abuses against Igbo people within Nigeria. Daily Nigerian reported the development on Monday. The committee will receive petitions, document cases, and engage relevant authorities.

Ohanaeze President-General Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu said the committee is a response to growing reports of targeted harassment, arbitrary arrests, property destruction, and discrimination affecting Igbo Nigerians in various parts of the country. He said a structured response is long overdue.

“Our people are entitled to the full protection of Nigerian law wherever they live. We will document every violation, engage every relevant institution, and pursue every legitimate avenue to ensure justice for our members,” Iwuanyanwu said.

Context of the Initiative

The Ohanaeze initiative comes against a backdrop of heightened tension in the southeast following the Biafra Heroes Day commemorations on May 30 and ongoing IPOB-related security operations. Igbo communities in various states have raised concerns about profiling and collective punishment.

Human rights organisations welcomed the committee’s formation but urged it to also address abuses by IPOB-linked groups against Igbo traders and commuters who do not observe sit-at-home orders. They said a truly credible human rights process must be consistent, not selective.

The committee is expected to present its first report to the Ohanaeze GEC within 90 days. It will also engage the National Human Rights Commission and the Inspector-General of Police to ensure findings are acted upon through appropriate institutional channels.