The leadership of the (BIM) and the (MASSOB) has strongly criticised a police invitation issued to their leader, , calling the move a breach of democratic principles and accusing authorities of seeking to detain him unjustly.
The groups say Uwazuruike was summoned to report to the police “Tiger Base” in Owerri on Monday, October 20, on charges including criminal invasion, forgery and willful damage. They describe the invitation as a “ploy to arrest and possibly detain” him.
“Don’t touch Ralph Uwazuruike,” the organisations declared in a statement signed by their media aide, Mazi Chris Mocha.
They argued that Uwazuruike, who bears the traditional title Ijele Ndigbo, has never committed any offence but volunteered to join a nationwide “peaceful” protest demanding the release of the detained , leader of the (IPOB).
This development comes shortly after Uwazuruike filed a fundamental human rights suit at the Owerri High Court against the and seven others.
In the suit he is seeking ₦100 million in damages for alleged rights violations and requesting an order restraining the police from arresting or detaining him over his planned participation in the October 20 protest.
In their statement, BIM–MASSOB described Uwazuruike as a committed, non‑violent leader who for 26 years has pursued, through peaceful means, the cause of Biafran self‑determination.
“Chief Uwazuruike has consistently demonstrated his commitment to peaceful dialogue and respect for the rule of law. There is no justification whatsoever for inviting him to the Tiger Base in Owerri for questioning,” the statement said.
