By Okafor Joseph Afam
January 16, 2025

A pregnant woman in Okija, Anambra State, has been rescued from illegal detention and alleged inhumane treatment after being held by vigilante operatives on her husband’s instructions.

The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, came to public attention through a viral video intercepted by the Anambra State Police Command. The state Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, swiftly intervened, ordering the woman’s rescue and initiating an investigation into the case.

Accusation of Theft

According to a press release issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, the victim was detained at a vigilante office on allegations of theft. Reports revealed that her husband was behind the detention, raising serious concerns about abuse of power and the mistreatment of vulnerable individuals.

Ikenga conveyed the Commissioner’s anger over the vigilante group’s actions, stating, “Such acts of indiscriminate detention and inhuman treatment have no place in a lawful society. The Commissioner of Police has ordered a full investigation into the matter to ensure justice is served.”

Public Outrage and Police Response

The viral video of the pregnant woman, visibly distressed and vulnerable, has shocked many Nigerians. The footage has drawn attention to the risks posed by unregulated vigilante actions and the urgent need for reform in local security practices.

The Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, condemned the vigilante operatives’ behavior and assured the public of immediate measures to prevent similar incidents. “We are engaging relevant authorities to ensure that vigilante operatives adhere strictly to professional standards,” Ikenga added.

Ensuring Justice

The police have also launched efforts to address the excesses of unprofessional vigilante members in the state. The Commissioner emphasized that those involved in the illegal detention and mistreatment of the woman will face the full weight of the law.

This incident has reignited conversations about the misuse of power and the need for stronger oversight of vigilante groups operating across Nigeria, particularly in rural communities.