By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has demanded the immediate release of Emenike Okorie, a constituent of Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who is reportedly being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.

The group also called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Okorie’s arrest and detention, demanding N100 million compensation from the Nigerian state if allegations of unlawful detention and violation of his fundamental rights are established.

In a press statement dated November 9, 2026, and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA alleged that Okorie’s ordeal followed questions he raised about billions of naira reportedly received by Kalu from the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu.

The association expressed concern that a constituent who allegedly sought explanations from his elected representative about public funds could end up in prison.

“When did demanding accountability from an elected representative become a criminal offence in Nigeria? Why should a constituent who seeks explanations about public resources allegedly find himself languishing in prison?” the group asked.

HURIWA said democracy could not thrive where elected officials allegedly use their influence to silence critics, intimidate constituents and punish citizens for demanding explanations about public resources.

It specifically appealed to Kalu, in his capacity as Deputy Speaker, to intervene and ensure Okorie’s unconditional release.

The association warned that public office should not be used as an instrument of intimidation or political persecution, stressing that elected representatives were expected to serve their constituents rather than punish those who question their stewardship.

HURIWA also raised concerns about Okorie’s physical condition, noting that he reportedly uses a walking stick. It said his continued detention raised questions about the treatment of vulnerable persons within the criminal justice system.

The group further urged the Federal Government to investigate the case and ensure that any established violation of Okorie’s rights attracts appropriate redress.

It warned that detaining a citizen for allegedly criticising an elected official could discourage public participation, freedom of expression and democratic accountability.

The association also cited the reported hostile reception Kalu encountered during a recent engagement with residents of Item community, saying the development should remind political office holders that public trust depends on transparency, responsible representation and respect for constituents.

HURIWA listed four demands: Okorie’s immediate and unconditional release; an independent investigation into his arrest and continued detention; ?100 million compensation if unlawful detention and rights violations are established; and an end to any attempt to intimidate or criminalise citizens for demanding accountability.

The association said it was joining Abuja-based human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju in calling for Okorie’s release from the Kuje Correctional Centre.

“No Nigerian should lose his freedom for asking an elected representative to account for public resources,” HURIWA said, adding that “democracy demands accountability, not intimidation. Public office is a trust, not a throne.”

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