Political Opinion
Known for his suppression and intimidation, the governor of Ebonyi State appears to be at it his best again, being suppression and repression of the weak and vulnerable. Hence, I have been prevailed upon by the highest traditional leadership of Amasiri Community to withdraw my action before the Federal High Court against the Governor of Ebonyi State, Governor Nwifuru.
I have been laboriously convinced, after painstaking consultations and careful consideration, that unless the suit is withdrawn, the governor would not release the traditional rulers, community leaders, and over thirty other innocent detainees from Amasiri who are currently being held in prison under circumstances widely perceived as vindictive.
What began as sustained pressure has now transformed and decorated into a passionate appeal—not only from revered and respected leaders of thought across Amasiri Community but also from the highest traditional institution of the Amasiri Clan, the Essa.
It is an appeal to which I have reluctantly, yet sacrificially, chosen to yield, knowing that the welfare, freedom, and very lives of those whose cause I have principally championed must remain paramount. I am persuaded to reason that any legal victory would be hollow if even one more Amasiri indigene were to lose his or her life while waiting for justice to take its course.
Accordingly, I have chosen to prioritize the immediate freedom of my people and the preservation of the lives, liberty, and dignity of the elderly, underage children, traditional rulers, women, and other innocent persons who have endured undue repression over matters for which they bear no responsibility.
In the circumstances, this objective has become more urgent than pursuing the longer course of judicial redress, which remains available and may be revisited should the need arise.
This decision has not come easily. It is one I have taken with profound sadness and deep personal sacrifice. However, it is being made in the overriding interest of the innocent and vulnerable people of Amasiri who continue to suffer detention and deprivation. It is also being made in deference to the constituted authority and collective leadership of Amasiri Community.
Nevertheless, I must state unequivocally that if the necessary steps are not taken within a realistic and reasonable timeframe to secure the release of those affected and address the underlying injustice, I shall not hesitate to return to court and pursue every lawful remedy available.
In the meantime, my pen will not cease to write, nor will my voice cease to speak. If anything, it shall grow louder. The struggle for justice does not end with the withdrawal of a suit. It continues until justice is done, liberty is restored, and Amasiri and her people are treated with the dignity, fairness, and respect they deserve.
Today is a sad day for me. Yet it is also a clarion call to patriotism and sacrifice. Having committed immeasurable personal resources, time, energy, and even my security to this cause, this decision weighs heavily on me. But obedience to the collective will of my people and respect for our revered traditional institution must prevail.
May this sacrifice hasten the freedom of our people and pave the way for justice, reconciliation, and lasting peace.
Thank you all for your prayers and solidarity throughout this sacrificial journey.
Yours truly,
—M. O. Idam