Issued by:
Follow Me Talk Human Rights and Anti-Intimidation Initiative
(An Independent Human Rights and Anti-Intimidation Advocacy Group)
Presenter: Mr. Francis “Follow Me Talk” — Human Rights Radio Presenter,
Date: June 28, 2025
INTRODUCTION
We, the Follow Me Talk Human Rights and Anti-Intimidation Initiative, have followed with deep concern the events surrounding the escape and eventual re-arrest of a principal suspect involved in the gruesome kidnapping and murder of the distinguished Hon. Justice Azuka, member representing Onitsha North 1 State Constituency.
We acknowledge the public outcry that followed the escape of two suspects in police custody under the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu. As a result of this unfortunate incident, CSP Ifeanyi Iburu—the RRS Commander at the time—was hastily removed from his position, despite being the very officer who courageously and relentlessly pursued justice and brought one of the key escapees back into custody.
LET US TELL THE FULL STORY: THE RE-ARREST OPERATION
It is both factual and on public record that the prime suspect—Ikemefuna—was successfully rearrested through a painstaking, intelligence-driven cross-border manhunt, which was coordinated and executed directly by CSP Ifeanyi Iburu, long after his removal from office.
Rather than shy away from the shame and controversy that came with the escape of the suspects, CSP Iburu took it upon himself—without funding or institutional backup—to go after justice. He personally engaged professional trackers, deployed technical intelligence, and mobilized his trusted men across several states and even beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The suspect was finally traced to Asaba, Delta State, after intelligence from Ghana led officers to his Nigerian girlfriend. During the arrest, Ikemefuna attempted to escape once again, loudly shouting and labeling CSP Iburu a “kidnapper” in a desperate ploy to escape justice. A shot was fired at his leg to prevent another escape.
Despite the emotional and physical intensity of the operation, CSP Iburu immediately ensured the suspect received medical treatment to stop bleeding and preserve life, then notified the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, who took over the matter. Today, the suspect is in lawful custody because CSP Ifeanyi Iburu fulfilled the same responsibility that cost him his position.
WHO DESERVES THE CREDIT? LET JUSTICE BE BALANCED
While it is convenient to generalize the success of the re-arrest under “the police,” it would be unjust and demoralizing to deny the gallant officer who risked everything to right the wrong.
> CSP Ifeanyi Iburu was removed due to the escape of this same suspect—should he not be celebrated for bringing him back?
We ask, to those who speculated that “money must have exchanged hands,” now that the suspect has been rearrested, are you bold enough to call on the suspect to testify about CSP Iburu’s role?
If indeed bribes were involved, why would the same officer risk so much and go so far to undo the very act some accused him of benefitting from?
THE BIGGER PICTURE: POLICE OFFICERS HAVE RIGHTS TOO
Our organization defends not only the oppressed citizens, but we also uphold the dignity of law enforcement officers who act with integrity. In this case, CSP Iburu did not fail—he was failed by hasty judgment.
His removal without allowing a full internal review process was not only unfair but demoralizing to every honest and action-driven officer in the Nigeria Police Force.
OUR DEMANDS: HONOUR AND PROMOTION FOR CSP IFEANYI IBURU
We therefore call on:
The Inspector General of Police (IGP)
The Police Service Commission (PSC)
The Anambra State Police Command
The Government of Anambra State
And all relevant authorities
To take immediate steps to reward, reinstate, and promote CSP Ifeanyi Iburu for his gallantry, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice.
REASONS FOR PROMOTION AND HONOUR
1. Fulfillment of Responsibility Despite Removal:
CSP Iburu personally tracked and re-arrested the same suspect whose escape led to his removal. He turned failure into triumph, without bitterness or blame.
2. Personal Sacrifice for Public Good:
Without official funds, CSP Iburu coordinated and financed this complex operation. He deserves both honour and institutional encouragement, not silence.
RECOMMENDATION FOR HONOUR
We urge that CSP Ifeanyi Iburu be considered for the following:
Promotion in Rank to reflect not only his bravery but also his results.
National Commendation or Service Star Award, recognizing his role in restoring public confidence after a major scandal.
Public Apology and Official Recognition from the Nigeria Police Force and Anambra State Government.
CONCLUSION: FROM WE, THE VOICE OF THE VOICELESS
The opposite of evil is not silence—it is good men and women rising up in truth. We stand firmly with CSP Ifeanyi Iburu and use this opportunity to restore dignity to all officers who serve with honesty and courage.
Let us not only criticize our police when they falter, but also applaud them when they redeem justice.
— Signed,
Mr Francis aka follow me talk Presenter and lead human rights advocate @
Follow Me Talk Human Rights and Anti-Intimidation Initiative
