The Nigerian Observatory for Human Rights (NOHR) has alleged that social media content creator Ezema Kelechi, popularly known as Kelwizzy, was abducted, assaulted and handed over to the police after posting videos highlighting the poor condition of roads in Nsukka, Enugu State.
In a statement, the rights group said Kelwizzy was allegedly lured from his home on August 5 by men who identified themselves as neighbourhood watch operatives. According to NOHR, the men claimed they wanted to pay him to record a birthday shout-out, a service he offers on his social media platforms.
NOHR said Kelwizzy’s brother alleged that after he stepped outside to meet the men, he was beaten and forced into a vehicle.
The group further alleged that he was taken to a location near Amagbo Primary School in Alor-Uno, where he was assaulted before being taken to the Nsukka Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force. It added that he has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Enugu.
According to NOHR, an officer at the Nsukka Area Command confirmed that Kelwizzy was being detained on the orders of the Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Engr. Jude Asogwa, over allegations of cyberbullying.
The allegations have sparked criticism from residents and social media users, who questioned the use of security personnel against a content creator for criticising public infrastructure.
NOHR said civil society groups and residents are demanding Kelwizzy’s immediate and unconditional release, maintaining that raising concerns about the condition of public roads is protected free expression.
