Police in Imo have confirmed the arrest of former commissioner for foreign affairs Fabian Ihekweme over alleged seditious and inflammatory publications.
Ihekweme has been vocal lately with his criticism of his former boss Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Spokesman of the Command Henry Okoye, in a statement on Thursday, said that Ihekweme was arrested following a petition brought against him by a group, the Imo Democratic Alliance (IDA).
Okoye explained that the publications were intended to incite civil unrest in the state, adding that “in line with due process, a duly signed warrant of arrest was obtained before his detention.”
The Imo police spokesman also debunked media reports that Ihekweme was kidnapped, urging the public to disregard the false narrative.
Okoye stated, “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.
“The Imo State Police Command remains committed to upholding the rule of law without external influence and will provide timely updates as necessary.”
