Why Fabian Ihekweme was arrested – Police

The Imo State Police Command has said that former Commissioner for Foreign Affairs in the State, Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, was not abducted by gunmen as is being alleged by some reports and a video that has gone viral, but that he was lawfully arrested by Police operatives.

A statement by ASP Okoye Henry, Police Public Relations Officer,
Imo State Command said that Ihekweme was arrested by detectives of the Command following a petition that accused him of “seditious and inflammatory publications aimed at inciting civil unrest in the State.”

Ihekweme has since falling out with the Governor Hope Uzodinma administration become a harsh critic of the government, and his arrest is being linked to his anti-Governor Uzodimma positions.

Full text of the statement of the Police PRO reads:

REFUTAL ON THE ALLEGED ABDUCTION OF DR. FABIAN IHEKWEME

The Imo State Police Command has noted with concern the circulation of misleading reports claiming that Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, former Commissioner for Foreign Affairs in Imo State, was allegedly abducted by gunmen. We wish to clarify the facts.

Dr. Fabian Ihekweme was not abducted, but was lawfully arrested on 27th November 2024 by detectives of the Imo State Police Command, following a formal petition by the Imo Democratic Alliance (IDA). The petition accused him of seditious and inflammatory publications aimed at inciting civil unrest in the State. In line with due process, a duly signed warrant of arrest was obtained before his detention.

We urge the public to disregard the false narrative circulating on social media, and call on media practitioners to verify their sources before publishing, as misinformation undermines public trust.

The Imo State Police Command remains committed to upholding the rule of law without external influence and will provide timely updates as necessary.

ASP OKOYE HENRY, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Command