Acquittal on Terrorism Charge
The Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square sentenced Frederick Nwajagu, a self-styled “Eze Ndigbo” of Ajao Estate, to one year imprisonment for unlawfully parading as a chief. Justice Yetunde Adesanya acquitted him of terrorism-related charges, citing a lack of evidence to support the Lagos State Government’s claims.
Background of the Case
Nwajagu was arrested in April 2023 after a viral video where he threatened to involve members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to secure Igbo properties in Lagos. Prosecutors charged him with acts of terrorism, including support for a proscribed entity and attempts to commit terrorism. However, the court dismissed these charges, stating that the prosecution failed to prove its cas
Violation of Chieftaincy Law
Despite being acquitted of terrorism, Nwajagu was convicted for violating the Lagos State Obas and Chiefs Law. The law mandates formal approval and recognition for chieftaincy titles, which Nwajagu failed to obtain. A key witness, Mrs. Raulat Ibrahim of the Ministry of Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, testified that “Eze Ndigbo” is not a recognized title in Lagos.
Defense and Sentencing
Nwajagu, who had been in custody awaiting trial since 2023, was freed after the judgment as he had already served more than a year in prison. Justice Adesanya emphasized that the verdict was based solely on the evidence provided and the stipulations of Lagos State law.
Community Reactions
The judgment has sparked mixed reactions within Lagos’ Igbo community. Some residents view the sentencing as a necessary enforcement of local laws, while others criticize it as a targeted action against a prominent figure advocating for the community’s security.
Conclusion
This case highlights the complexities of Lagos State’s chieftaincy regulations and the challenges of balancing traditional leadership roles with statutory laws. While the court cleared Nwajagu of terrorism charges, it reaffirmed the importance of adhering to legal processes for obtaining and claiming traditional titles.
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