By Emeka Nwokocha
Citizens Rights Concern Enhancement Initiative (CRCEI) has expressed deep concern over the remand of notable human rights advocate and social crusader in Nigeria, Comrade Victor Ojei, popularly known as “WongBox,” at the Ogwashi-Uku Correctional Centre, following his arraignment at the Federal High Court, Asaba recently.
CRCEI, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Amb. Monday Enudi, and made available to journalists in Warri, noted that the charges the police preferred against WongBox border on alleged cyberbullying, dissemination of false information, and injurious online publications that accused the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, of land grabbing, to which WongBox pleaded not guilty to the charges, but he was subsequently remanded by the trial judge pending further proceedings.
CRCEI said, “As an organization committed to the defense of human rights, justice, accountability, and freedom of expression in Nigeria within the ambit of the law, we hold strong to the rule of law that guarantees every citizen the right to fair hearing and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law.”
CRCEI asserted that Comrade Victor Ojei had over the years distinguished himself as vibrant and dependable voice in the human rights advocacy space through fierce activism on issues affecting the less privileged and underserved populace.
The organisation, while emphasizing that the judicial process must be respected, strongly called on relevant authorities to ensure that WongBox’s fundamental rights are protected in the course of the legal proceedings.
CRCEI reiterated, “We express great concern over this development and stand with WongBox in solidarity.” It added, “An injury to a committed voice in the struggle for justice resonates deeply across the human rights community.”
CRCEI urged the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi to prioritise professionalism and focus on diligent policing to build public trust, maintain public order and ensure sustainable peace in the state.
The organisation therefore called on all stakeholders in the activism space to sheath their swords, saying, “In the spirit of activism and comradeship, we should embrace love, unity and show strong solidarity with Comrade Victor Ojei popularly known as WongBox in this subject matter.”
CRCEI advised politicians to desist from arrogating to themselves government institutions of power to silence the vocal and fearless voice of Wongbox.
CRCEI said, “We, therefore, urge all stakeholders, supporters, civil society organisations, and lovers of justice to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and vigilant while the judicial process runs its course in a manner that favours justice over influence.”
The organisation concluded, “Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done.”
