Quick Summary:
IHRC-RFT Nigeria condemns non-compliance with court order on Walida Abdullahi’s release, warns of possible escalation to UN level.
The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), Nigeria Chapter, has expressed serious concern over the continued detention of Walida Abdullahi, despite what it described as a valid court order directing her release to her parents.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the Country Director, Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji, the organisation said it had received credible information confirming that the court directive has not been obeyed, describing the situation as troubling and a threat to the rule of law.
“Disobedience Undermines Constitutional Governance”
The IHRC-RFT warned that disobedience to lawful court orders undermines constitutional governance and public trust. It cited international human rights law and the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), particularly Sections 34, 35, and 36, which guarantee dignity, personal liberty, and fair hearing.
The organisation also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which guarantees freedom from arbitrary detention.
Call for Urgent Intervention
IHRC-RFT called on the Governor of Jigawa State, federal and state lawmakers, and traditional and religious leaders to intervene immediately to ensure compliance with the court’s directive.
The group stressed that justice is both a moral and religious obligation, quoting from Islamic and Christian scriptures to emphasize the duty of leaders to uphold fairness and equity.
Threat of International Escalation
The organisation warned that it may escalate the matter internationally if the delay persists, citing its consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
However, IHRC-RFT expressed hope for a swift domestic resolution, reaffirming its non-partisan, non-religious, and non-ethnic stance.
Background of the Case
The case of Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim began in 2023 after she was allegedly abducted from Anku community in Hadejia Local Government Area of Jigawa State by a DSS operative, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi.
Walida, currently at the DSS headquarters in Abuja with her three-month-old daughter, claimed she fears for her safety if returned to her parents.
Her parents, however, denied the allegations, accusing Ifeanyi of influencing her to disown her family and convert from Islam to Christianity.
The DSS maintains that Walida is in protective custody for her safety and confirmed that Ifeanyi is under investigation. The Service also disclosed that it has applied to vacate the court order directing her release.
