By Comrade Enemona Abel Ellah
The detention of Mallam Abdulwahab Tijani, popularly known as Tony-Tony, cannot and should not end with a press statement from the Ukomu Igala Organization, UIO. It demands decisive action, due process, and an independent investigation.
Reports indicate that Tony-Tony is currently being held at the Koton-Karfi Correctional Facility for speaking out against illegal mining activities that are destroying roads and communities in Ankpa. There are further allegations that his arrest was brutal, that he was assaulted, and that he sustained injuries to his head and face.
These are grave allegations. They must not be ignored, nor should conclusions be drawn before facts are established.
The fundamental questions are simple and must be answered by the appropriate authorities:
- On what grounds was Tony-Tony arrested?
- What is the legal basis for his continued detention?
- Has he been formally charged before a court of competent jurisdiction?
- Has he been granted access to legal representation?
- Have the reported injuries sustained during arrest been investigated?
- Who were the officers involved in the arrest and alleged assault?
DUE PROCESS MUST PREVAIL
If Tony-Tony is suspected of an offence, let the law take its course. Investigate, charge him properly, and allow him to defend himself in court.
If he is innocent, then he must be released without further delay.
If anyone is found to have assaulted him or effected an unlawful detention, such persons must be held accountable.
This is not a call to shield anyone from the law. It is a call for the law to be obeyed by all.
A TEST FOR UIO AND IGALA LEADERSHIP
UIO has repeatedly spoken about justice, peace, unity and progress. The Tony-Tony case presents an opportunity to translate those values into action.
The Igala people need more than communiqués. They need intervention.
UIO should engage relevant authorities to ascertain Tony-Tony’s legal status, demand an independent probe into the assault allegations, ensure he has competent legal representation, and monitor the case until due process is served.
Allegations involving persons in positions of authority in Kogi State must not be swept aside because of status. The truth must be established through transparent investigation.
A COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY
This burden should not rest on UIO alone. ICDA, the Igala legal community including Senior Advocates of Nigeria, elders’ councils, retired security personnel, professional bodies, and other socio-cultural groups must also rise to the occasion.
Our organizations cannot exist only for ceremonies and press releases. They must defend human dignity, fairness and justice when it matters most.
NIGERIA IS NOT A BANANA REPUBLIC
No one is above the law. Not a politician. Not a government official. Not a security agent. Not a vigilante. Not an influential citizen. And not an ordinary Nigerian.
If Tony-Tony is guilty, let the court say so.
If he is not, let him go free.
If his rights were violated, let the perpetrators face the law.
The Tony-Tony case should serve as a wake-up call to UIO, ICDA, our elders, lawyers, and the entire Igala leadership.
The people demand action, not silence. Due process, not impunity. Justice, not intimidation.
We stand for JUSTICE, PEACE, UNITY AND PROGRESS.
Comrade Enemona Abel Ellah writes from Abuja. He writes on tradition and cultural values and hosts a social media column titled: SOCIAL MEDIA STORYLINE.
Editor Note: This is an opinion article and does not necessarily reflect the views of this publication.
