Ihejirika on death row for drug trafficking in Indonesia freed
Story from Jane AISO
A Nigerian man, Emma Ihejirika, who had been on death row for drug-related charges in Indonesia, has regained his freedom after a significant legal battle. Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, confirmed Ihejirika’s release, which was secured through the efforts of U.S.-based Nigerian lawyer Emmanuel Ogebe.
On Friday, Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa took to social media to announce the breakthrough, stating, “A Nigerian, Emma Ihejirika, on death row for drugs in Indonesia has been FREED.” She went on to commend Barrister Ogebe for his dedication, noting that he provided his services pro bono and successfully took the case to Indonesia’s Supreme Court.
In a statement issued by NIDCOM, it was revealed that this victory followed years of advocacy, beginning with a Nigerian delegation’s visit to Indonesian prisons several years ago. The delegation, led by the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Ojo Madueke, and including Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, had pleaded for clemency on behalf of 21 Nigerians sentenced to death for drug trafficking offenses. Sadly, four of those Nigerians were later executed, along with an Indonesian and a British citizen.
Ihejirika’s case, however, stood out as a potential case of mistaken identity. Barrister Ogebe offered to pursue it, reaching out to Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa for her assistance. His relentless work eventually led to the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the death sentence in December.
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Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa praised Ogebe’s “selflessness and kindness” in taking on the case, emphasizing the importance of Nigerians staying away from criminal activities, particularly in countries like Indonesia, where the penalty for drug trafficking is death. She also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Charge D’Affaires in Indonesia, Ms. Patricia Alechenu, for her continuous support.
In response, Barrister Ogebe thanked Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa for her prompt intervention, acknowledging her long-standing commitment to supporting Nigerians abroad.
Written by Sekinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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