Journalist Petitions Ebonyi Police Commissioner Over Alleged Threats, Rights Violations
An Anambra-based journalist, David-Chyddy Eleke, has petitioned the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police (CP), Anthonia Uche-Anya, over alleged threats to his life and human rights violations by a United States-based Nigerian, Ikechukwu Nkumeh, and his brother, Friday Nkumeh.
Eleke, who serves as the Anambra State Correspondent for THISDAY Newspapers, accused the Nkumeh brothers of using Anti-Kidnapping and SWAT operatives in Ebonyi State to intimidate and harass him and his family over a land dispute in Oshiri, Onicha Local Government Area.
In his petition, Eleke called on CP Uche-Anya to restrain the police from being used as tools of oppression by the Nkumeh brothers. He alleged that since December 2024, his family members have faced repeated arrests and illegal detentions, allegedly orchestrated by the Nkumehs with the support of law enforcement.
“Since their return from the US last year, they have been grabbing lands belonging to their neighbors in the village,” Eleke claimed.
He further alleged that three of his relatives are currently in police custody or prison, while the Nkumehs continue to file frivolous petitions against his family members.
Eleke stated that he is now the next target, after confronting Ikechukwu Nkumeh over land ownership.
“He has made a fresh petition against me. I don’t even know the allegations, but the police have been calling to invite me. I know it’s a trap to lure me to Abakaliki so they can arrest and detain me illegally,” he said.
Expressing frustration over the situation, Eleke called on the Ebonyi CP to intervene and put an end to the alleged abuse of police power.
“Would Ikechukwu and Friday Nkumeh behave this way in the US, where human rights are strictly protected? They have weaponized money and influence to subjugate us,” he lamented.
When contacted, Ebonyi Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josh Ukandu, said he was unaware of the petition and requested a copy for review.
Meanwhile, when reached for comment, Ikechukwu Nkumeh dismissed the allegations and refused further engagement.
“Who are you, and who gave you my number? I don’t know you. Don’t call me again. I don’t do that nonsense you guys do in Nigeria,” he stated before ending the call.
The case is expected to draw further attention as the journalist seeks justice and protection for himself and his family.
