SOHAD Condemns Police Bail for Illegal Firearms Suspects in Ohafia Crisis

The Society for Human Rights Advocacy and Development (SOHAD), a coalition of civil society and pro-democracy groups in Abia State, has condemned the alleged granting of administrative bail to suspects linked to illegal firearm possession and violent disturbances in parts of Ohafia Local Government Area.

The group made its position known in a statement issued after a meeting held on May 18, 2026, at Freedom Hall, where members reviewed the roles played by security agencies in the recent kingship tussle and communal clashes affecting communities in Ohafia.

SOHAD particularly commended troops of the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade Headquarters for what it described as “valiant actions” in restoring order in troubled communities such as Okon Aku and Okagbue.

According to the organization, the military recorded major operational breakthroughs through intelligence-led operations that led to the arrest of suspected criminals and hoodlums allegedly involved in acts of violence and civil unrest in the area.

The group further noted that illegal firearms were reportedly recovered during the operations, while suspects were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Abia State Command, for further investigation and prosecution.

However, SOHAD expressed concern over reports that some suspects facing allegations involving illegal firearms were granted administrative bail by officers attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

The organization argued that offences relating to illegal firearm possession are serious crimes under the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act and should not ordinarily qualify for police administrative bail.

“Capital offences involving possession of illegal firearms are tied to violent crimes such as robbery and kidnapping that carry severe penalties under the law,” the statement read.

While acknowledging that the Police Act 2020 empowers the police to grant bail in minor and bailable offences, SOHAD insisted that firearm-related offences should only be considered for bail by courts of competent jurisdiction.

The group described the actions of the officers involved as unlawful and capable of undermining public safety and ongoing security efforts in Ohafia and Abia State generally.

According to SOHAD, the release of such suspects could frustrate the genuine efforts of the military in restoring lasting peace and stability in the affected communities.

The organization therefore called on the Commissioner of Police in Abia State to immediately review all criminal cases involving illegal firearm possession handed over by the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade.

It also demanded an investigation into the conduct of police officers allegedly responsible for granting bail to the suspects, urging authorities to prosecute any officer found culpable in compromising the integrity of the police force.

SOHAD further demanded that all suspects earlier arrested by the military be rearrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The civil society group also condemned the growing atmosphere of insecurity and violence across Ohafia Local Government Area, reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice and public safety.

It urged residents of Abia State to refrain from acts capable of disrupting socio-economic activities in Ohafia and other parts of the state, stressing the need for citizens to support lawful efforts aimed at restoring order and stability.