The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has expressed a deep concern over reports that Ms Precious Oruche, widely known as Mama P, a social media activist and supporter of Mr Peter Obi, was physically assaulted by suspected thugs allegedly linked to Mr Julius Abure, former National Chairman of the Labour Party.
The Executive Director of RULAAC, Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma, in a press statement, said that disturbingly, she is currently being detained by the Edo State Police Command.
According to him, RULAAC unequivocally condemns all forms of violence and intimidation as instruments of political contestation.
Even more alarming is the conduct of the police in detaining a victim of assault rather than safeguarding her rights and pursuing justice against the perpetrators. Such actions are unprofessional, unjust, and erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.
He said: “We remind the Nigeria Police Force of its constitutional mandate to protect all citizens impartially, regardless of political affiliation or social status. Upholding neutrality, fairness, and professionalism is critical to restoring public confidence and ensuring that the police do not become pawns in political rivalries.”
In light of these developments, RULAAC calls on the Inspector-General of Police and the Edo State Commissioner of Police to immediately release Mama P from custody, as there is no evidence indicating she has committed any offence recognised by law and launch a thorough and impartial investigation into the reported assault, ensuring that all responsible parties be they political figures or hired thugs are identified and prosecuted.
RULAAC further demands that the IGP and Edo State Police Command to maintain professionalism and neutrality in handling this case and avoid any actions that may suggest bias or complicity in shielding influential individuals from accountability.
“Violence and intimidation must not be allowed to fester within Nigeria’s political landscape. The police must reaffirm their allegiance to the Constitution, the rule of law, and the rights of all citizens, not to individuals or partisan interests,” he said.
