Rights Groups, CSOs Demand Independent Investigation into Alleged Disappearances, Torture, Custodial Deaths in S’East
.Say FG, security agencies must be held accountable Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Enugu With unending outcries over years of security operations in the South-east zone, human rights groups have jointly demanded
Human rights organizations have urged the federal government in Enugu to establish an independent panel to probe alleged disappearances, torture, and custodial deaths in the South-east region. This demand comes amid persistent outcry over security operations in the area. At a press conference, the South-east Human Rights Bureau (SEHRB) joined forces with civil society groups like the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) and the Oganihu Igbo Development Foundation to make their demands.
They cited documented evidence of numerous deaths and disappearances under the hands of security agents, as well as the absence of any trace for many others. To address these issues, the groups proposed an audit of all detention centers and the disclosure of arrest, transfer, and custody records. They also called for forensic investigations into mortuaries to identify unidentified bodies and guaranteed judicial safeguards for detainees.
The groups emphasized that perpetrators must be held criminally responsible for human rights abuses, and victims should receive compensation, medical care, and psychosocial support. They acknowledged the security challenges in the Southeast but insisted that state lawlessness cannot be justified. The tragic stories they shared, including those of Sunday Ifedi and his wife Calista, highlighted the urgent need for truth, justice, and accountability for all victims.
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