Imo Community Seeks Govt’s Intervention Over Alleged Security Brutality

The President-General of Udo Peoples Assembly (UPA), Collins Onyewuchi, has appealed to government authorities to investigate alleged security brutality and infringement of community rights in the Udo Autonomous Community of Imo State. Onyewuchi recounted a series of incidents that have heightened tension and fear among residents, emphasizing that the main issue is the process for selecting and recognizing a traditional ruler after the death of the previous ruler in 2020.

The UPA had written to the governor over the matter, but received no response, so they approached the court for clarification. Onyewuchi also reported an incident on August 10 during the community's annual August meeting, where security personnel arrived during a prayer gathering and allegedly fired a firearm, leading to the arrest of eight youths.

He alleged that some residents were assaulted during this operation, and that some required medical attention. The detained youths were released on August 13, but some phones and a laptop were not recovered. Onyewuchi appealed to the Imo State Government, police authorities, and other security agencies to investigate the allegations, ensure that disputes are handled through dialogue and lawful procedures, and refrain from excessive force or intimidation.