By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The continued detention of some Amasiri indigenes following the crisis in the Ebonyi community has prompted renewed calls for their immediate and unconditional release.
The Executive Director of Weekenders Media Commercial Limited and publisher of Weekenders Magazine, Joy Idam, made the call on Thursday, urging Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru to order the release of the remaining detainees.
Idam commended the Ebonyi State Government for releasing some of the detainees, describing the move as a positive step towards restoring hope and confidence among the people.
She, however, said genuine reconciliation and lasting peace in Amasiri would remain difficult while other residents remained in detention.
According to her, the continued detention of some Amasiri residents has subjected their families to emotional, psychological and economic hardship.
She said several families had been left without their breadwinners, while children had been deprived of proper care and education.
Idam stressed that every Nigerian is entitled to fundamental rights, including liberty, fair hearing and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court.
She urged Governor Nwifuru to demonstrate his commitment to justice, fairness and compassionate leadership by ensuring that no innocent person remains behind bars.
She also warned that prolonged detention could undermine ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in Amasiri.
“Genuine reconciliation and justice can only be achieved when all innocent citizens regain their freedom,” she said.
Idam called on traditional rulers, political leaders, religious institutions, security agencies and other community stakeholders to embrace dialogue and lawful means of resolving the crisis.
She said the unconditional release of the remaining detainees would help heal wounds, rebuild public trust and promote unity in Amasiri and Ebonyi State.
Idam reaffirmed Weekenders Magazine’s commitment to promoting justice, accountability, peaceful coexistence, good governance and the protection of fundamental human rights.
