RULAAC denounces DSS indefinite detention of banker, demands compliance with the law
The Rule of Law, Accountability and Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has condemned the alleged secret arrest and detention of a Fidelity Bank staff, Onyemaechi Fabian Chizaram.
A statement by RULAAC’s executive director, Okechukwu Nwanguma said the refusal of the DSS to inform family of the banker about his arrest, or grant him bail or arraign him before a court, was a violation of established legal norms and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.
The RULAAC statement reads: “The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) condemns the indefinite and secret detention of Onyemaechi Fabian Chizaram, an employee of Fidelity Bank in Aba, Abia State, allegedly by the Department of State Security (DSS). His family has reported that he was arrested on January 10, 2025, and has remained unaccounted for since.
“Onyemaechi’s absence was first noted when he failed to return home from work on January 10. Inquiries by his father at Fidelity Bank revealed he was arrested by police and directed to seek information from the Zone 9 police headquarters and the DSS office in Umuahia. Both entities denied holding him.
“On January 17, some persons who identified themselves as DSS operatives returned Onyemaechi briefly to his family home before taking him back into custody, denying further access to him.
“Reports indicate that Onyemaechi is currently being secretly held at the DSS office in Shangisha, Lagos. His family and legal representatives remain unaware of the charges against him, and he has been unlawfully detained for over 17 days without bail or charges.”
Legal Concerns
“The detention without charge or bail contravenes established legal norms, including the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which mandates that a detainee’s family must be informed of their arrest and the reasons for it.
RULAAC’s Position
RULAAC firmly denounces this arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention. We call on the DSS to immediately release Onyemaechi Fabian Chizaram and uphold the rule of law. Law enforcement agencies must adhere to legal procedures and respect the rights of individuals.”
