The family of the Labour Party chairman in Obiangwu Ward 10, Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State, Nwachukwu Justin Ikedi, has raised concerns over his safety following an alleged security manhunt for him.
The family alleged that security operatives had been searching for Ikedi and that he was purportedly declared wanted after political activities resumed ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his brother, Nwachukwu Paschal Chibuzor, the family said the LP chairman had faced security pressure since his involvement in political activities, particularly after supporting Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election.
According to Chibuzor, Ikedi was arrested in February 2023 and detained for several months before eventually going into hiding over fears for his safety.
The family further alleged that the situation worsened after Ikedi participated in the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, claiming that security personnel subsequently placed him on a watch list over alleged offences relating to treason and other national security matters.
It also alleged that armed men in unmarked vehicles raided his residence while he was away, subjected family members to severe treatment and that the incident was followed by the death of his 16-day-old child, Chioma.
The family claimed that Ikedi subsequently fled with his surviving relatives to an undisclosed location, while persons suspected to be security operatives later visited his hometown, Umuolulu Obiangwu, allegedly after failing to find him at his Owerri residence.
The family appealed for urgent attention to Ikedi’s situation, expressing concern that the alleged security operation could expose him and his family to further danger, while calling for his safety and the protection of his fundamental rights.