The Nigerian Army has explained why Nollywood Actor, Chiwetalu Agu, was arrested in Onitsha, Anambra State.
Recall that the comic actor was caught on video being manhandled by operatives of the Nigerian Army on Thursday.
According to Army Spokesman, Onyema Nwachukwu, Chiwetalu was arrested for soliciting support for the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.
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Onyema stated this in a statement titled, ‘Troops Arrest Chiwetalu Agu While Soiciting Support for Proscribed IPOB,’ on Thursday.
He further explained that the actor was only detained, contrary to reports that he was brutalised.
The army also noted that while it recognises the inalienable rights of freedom of movement and expression as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution, it is a violation for any individual or group to incite the public to cause mayhem or break down of law and order.
The statement read in part, “Troops of Nigerian Army have arrested one Chiwetalu Agu while inciting members of the public and soliciting for support for the proscribed IPOB.
“Dressed in a very well known attire of the proscribed group, Chiwetalu Agu was picked up for questioning while inciting members of the public to join the proscribed group. Though he attempted puting up some resistance when troops made effort to take him into custody, he was not assaulted or subjected to brutalisation.”
“It is therefore pertinent to state that while exercising such freedoms, it must be done within the confines of the law, bearing in mind the imperative for peace, and national security,” it said.
“It is important to once again place on record that the allegation that he was brutalised is false and should be disregarded accordingly.
