RULAAC protest alleged unlawful detention of Imo community leader at ‘notorious’ Tiger Base
The Rule of Law Accountability and Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned the Imo State Police Commissioner over what it described as the alleged unlawful arrest and detention of Prince Anaele Obasi-Oparaugo and his Supporters by the Tiger Base Police Unit of the state.
According to a statement signed by RULAAC’s executive director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, the arrest of Obasi-Oparaugo, son of the late traditional ruler of Eziama Uloji Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Canice Obasi, was instigated by forces against his ascension to his father’s throne.
The statement accused one Charles Amadi, also known as Charlvon, as the mastermind of the the arrest of Obasi-Oparaugo, working in cahoots with the Imo State government.
The statement reads in full
The statement reads: “The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has received information from the members of the Obasi-Oparaugo Royal Family of Eziama Uloji Autonomous Community, and hereby writes to bring to your attention the alleged unlawful and oppressive actions perpetrated against them by the Tiger Base Unit of the Imo State Police Command, instigated by Mr. Charles Amadi (a.k.a. Charlvon).
“RULAAC is informed that the core issue arises from the ongoing traditional ruler tussle in Eziama Uloji Autonomous Community.
“According to our information, following the death of Eze Canice Anaele Obasi-Oparaugo in 2022, the community designated Prince Chris Anaele Obasi-Oparaugo as Eze-Elect. However, Mr. Amadi contested this selection and promoted Pastor Daniel Iwuamadi. A court case (Suit No: HOW/384/2022) is currently pending on this matter.
“Despite this legal process, on March 22, 2025, the Imo State Governor unlawfully recognized Pastor Iwuamadi as the traditional ruler, directly undermining the ongoing court proceedings. In response, the contending family and members of the community filed an application to have this recognition set aside, labeling it illegal and unconstitutional.
“On May 14 and 15, 2025, operatives of the Tiger Base, Owerri travelled all the way to Lagos and unlawfully arrested Prince Anaele Obasi-Oparaugo from his Lagos residence, took him to Owerri and detained him at the Tiger Base Unit without any formal complaint or legal justification. The police also abducted other supporters from the community without cause. According to the family representatives, attempts by legal representatives to secure their release were met with hostility, as officers under the Tiger Base Commander, CSP Ola affirmed they acted under directives from the Governor.
“Reports indicate a troubling pattern of the Tiger Base Unit engaging in arbitrary and violent arrests and unlawful detentions without accountability, claiming an exemption from oversight by the Commissioner of Police.
“ RULAAC urgently calls upon your office to:
“1. Initiate an investigation into the actions of the Tiger Base Unit concerning these unlawful arrests and detentions.
“2. Direct the immediate and unconditional release of Prince Anaele Obasi-Oparaugo and the other detainees.
“3. Uphold the rule of law and reinforce the necessity for adherence to legal principles in resolving community disputes and ensure that all actions taken by the police are justifiable and lawful.
“The present situation in Imo State undermines the rule of law and the due process that should govern our society. It is imperative to address these injustices swiftly to restore faith in the state’s legal system.
“We appreciate your attention to this serious matter and anticipate your prompt action to uphold justice for the indigenes of Eziama Uloji Autonomous Community.”
Background
The kingship dispute in Eziama Ikeduru, Imo State, has escalated since the death of traditional ruler HRH Eze Canice Obasi in 2021, highlighting broader challenges in Igbo leadership succession. Following a customary mourning period, factions emerged, with Chief Charles Amadi attempting to impose his brother as the new ruler, facing resistance from those backing Prince Anaele Chris Obasi, the late ruler’s son, who was crowned on July 3, 2022.
The conflict intensified into violence, involving harassment and assaults against community leaders opposing Amadi’s influence, including a notable incident on March 4, 2023, where community members were brutally matreated by security operatives from the Tiger Base. Political interference is a significant factor, with Amadi allegedly seeking to sway the succession in favor of his brother, Daniel, despite ongoing court proceedings.
The unrest has disrupted the social fabric of Eziama Ikeduru, leading to governance issues and a climate of fear. The community is divided between supporters of Prince Anaele Obasi and those backing Amadi’s brother.
In May 2025, Prince Anaele Chris Obasi was abducted by individuals identified as police officers from the Tiger Base, Owerri, allegedly under orders from the Imo State Governor in response to a petition against him. He remains detained without charges, alongside other supporters from his camp.
This situation exemplifies a troubling trend in Igbo communities, where political interests increasingly interfere with traditional succession processes. A resolution requires a return to customary selection methods, free from political influence, and a collaborative dialogue among community leaders to restore peace and ensure orderly governance.
