By Yemi Akinsuyi
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), a frontline human rights advocacy organization, has congratulated Comrade Emmanuel Acha, a human rights defender from Ebonyi State, on his discharge and acquittal by a competent court of law after over 200 days of unjust detention.
FENRAD, according to the Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, described the court’s decision as a resounding victory for justice, the rule of law, and the protection of civic space in Nigeria.
“Emmanuel Acha’s ordeal represents a troubling pattern in which activists and community advocates are subjected to Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPP) and other coercive state actions for peacefully exercising their constitutional rights.
“We commend the Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) and Spaces for Change (S4C) for their unwavering intervention, sustained advocacy, and legal support throughout this prolonged and challenging period. Their collective efforts ensured that Emmanuel Acha was not abandoned and that his case remained in the public consciousness, reinforcing the importance of solidarity within the civic space.
“FENRAD particularly applauds the courage and resilience of Emmanuel Acha, whose commitment to justice and community rights remained steadfast despite prolonged incarceration and intimidation. His release reaffirms that truth, persistence, and collective action can overcome repression.
“This landmark outcome underscores the urgent need for Nigerian authorities to end the criminalization of civic engagement, respect the rights of human rights defenders, and ensure that state institutions are not weaponized to silence dissenting voices.
“FENRAD reiterates its commitment, alongside civil society partners, to defend human rights, promote accountability, and protect Nigeria’s shrinking civic space. We call on governments at all levels to uphold constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations. Justice has prevailed, and civic space has been strengthened” it stated.
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) is a frontline human rights and environmental justice organization working to promote good governance, accountability, civic participation, and the protection of human rights in Nigeria. FENRAD is a member of the Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) and actively collaborates with civil society partners to resist repression, challenge abuses of power, and advance democratic freedoms.
