Human Rights Report: The Wrongful Arrest and Detention of MC2KINGDOM Ajirioghene Otagba

The arrest of MC Ajirioghene Otagba sparked tension in Isokoland, and it’s understandable why. He was detained by the Nigeria Police Force after speaking out about the abandoned 132/33KVA substation in Ozoro, a project awarded to Chief Matthew Edevbie’s company by the NDDC in the early 2000s.

This project has been left unfinished for over a decade, leaving the community without electricity. It’s even more disheartening considering Isoko is one of the largest onshore crude oil producers in Nigeria, yet the people continue to suffer.

Before this incident, efforts were being made to restart the project, with the Senator representing Isoko South, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas along with the with NDDC MD, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku who met with Chief Matthew Edevbie to address the issue head-on.

To resolve the current situation it was suggested that the process to restart the project be allowed to continue, with Chief Matthew Edevbie releasing Ajirioghene as promised. The Isoko North Council Chairman, Godwin Ogorugba, has also called for Ajirioghene’s release as well as Iteveh Nur’ Ekpokpob, OgheneYole Ogaga and several other youth groups in Isokoland.

Executive Summary
This report documents the wrongful arrest and detention of MC2KINGDOM Ajirioghene Otagba, a Nigerian citizen, and highlights the crucial role played by Senator Joel-Onowakpo (Delta South Senatorial District), Prof. Akpotu, Isoko Development Union President, Lady E Ejiro Umukoro in amplifying his case and advocating for his release.

Background
On February 15, 2025, MC2KINGDOM Ajirioghene Otagba was arrested by the Nigeria Police Force after speaking out about the abandoned 132/33KVA substation in Ozoro, a project awarded to Chief Matthew Edevbie’s company by the NDDC in the early 2000s. He was detained at the Force Headquarter Annex, Obalende Lagos, without access to legal representation, family members, or medical care. While efforts were made by the police to transfer from Lagos made no head way, Ajirioghene Otagba was transferred to the police station in Maitama, Abuja.

The Role of Lady E Ejiro Umukoro
Lady E Ejiro Umukoro, a prominent human rights advocate, played a pivotal role in amplifying MC2KINGDOM’s case and advocating for his release behind the scenes along with leaders of Isokoland Nation. Through her social media platforms and network, Lady Umukoro raised awareness about the wrongful arrest and detention, mobilizing public pressure on the Nigerian authorities, national assembly members to facilitate the release of MC2KINGDOM.

She also joined forces with fellow broadcaster, Cordelia Okpe on Mainland FM to amplify the voice of Ajirioghene Otagba, who was recently released from detention. On Tuesday, February 18th, Lady Ejiro used the platform to call out state assembly representatives in Delta, urging them to better represent the Isoko Nation in terms of socio-economic development and political advancement.

As a multi-award-winning broadcaster and journalist, Lady Ejiro has consistently demonstrated her commitment to advocating for justice and human rights. Her work has been recognized globally, with awards such as the ChangeMakers Award presented by the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM).

By using her influential voice on Mainland FM, Lady Ejiro, alongside Cordelia Okpei, brought attention to the plight of Ajirioghene Otagba and the broader issues affecting the Isoko Nation. This amplification is crucial in holding those in power accountable and pushing for meaningful change.

Impact and Outcome
The efforts of Lady E Ejiro Umukoro and other human rights advocates such as Art critique, Anote Ajeluoruo and others contributed significantly to the eventual release of MC2KINGDOM, Ajirioghene Otagba. The Nigerian authorities, facing mounting pressure and international scrutiny, released MC2KINGDOM, although the exact date of release is not specified.

Conclusion and Recommendations
The wrongful arrest and detention of MC2KINGDOM Ajirioghene Otagba highlight the ongoing human rights challenges in Nigeria. Lady E Ejiro Umukoro’s role in amplifying MC2KINGDOM’s case demonstrates the importance of human rights advocacy and the impact of individual efforts in promoting justice and accountability.

We recommend that the Nigerian authorities:

1. Investigate and Prosecute: Investigate the circumstances surrounding MC2KINGDOM’s arrest and detention, and prosecute those responsible for any human rights violations.
2. Provide Compensation: Provide adequate compensation to MC2KINGDOM for the harm and suffering he endured during his detention.
3. Strengthen Human Rights Protections: Take concrete steps to strengthen human rights protections in Nigeria, including reforming the criminal justice system and ensuring accountability for human rights violations.