Former Tremendous Eagles star Uche Nwofor has petitioned the Chief of Military Workers, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, searching for justice after allegedly being assaulted by troopers in Onitsha.
The incident, which occurred on Might 20, 2024, at Modebe Memorial Major College, has sparked outrage and requires an investigation into the troopers’ conduct.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, representing Nwofor, described the assault as “barbaric, absurd, condescending, and embarrassing,” stating that it was a blatant violation of Nwofor’s proper to dignity. Effiong’s petition urges the Military Chief to type a disciplinary panel to analyze the incident and be certain that the troopers concerned are held accountable. He additionally requests financial compensation for Nwofor.
In accordance with the petition, Nwofor and his pals, together with former Enugu Rangers Worldwide participant Ozor Philips and Turkey-based Uzoma Charles, have been on the Onitsha Military Barracks when troopers approached them. Charles was ordered to take a seat on the street and had his dreadlocks forcibly shaved off with unhygienic scissors. Nwofor, who initially resisted, was ultimately pressured to take a seat on the street as nicely. The troopers mocked and known as them derogatory names like “Yahoo boy” and “dangerous boy.”
The petition emphasises that Nwofor’s remedy was a gross violation of his basic human rights and requires fast motion towards the troopers accountable. Effiong calls for that the Military deal with this injustice and compensate Nwofor for the violation of his rights, noting that Nwofor, a former Tremendous Eagles star, has introduced pleasure to many football-loving Nigerians and maintained his clear dreadlocks with out committing any crime.
The case has drawn important consideration, with many advocating for swift justice and stricter measures to forestall such incidents sooner or later.