“Urgent Need for Justice: Prosecuting Asari Dokubo for Threatening the Igbo Race”
Asari Dokubo, a former Niger Delta militant leader, has recently made headlines for a video clip in which he brandished rifles and made threatening remarks against the Igbo ethnic group in Nigeria. Despite clear violations of Nigerian laws, including the possession of firearms without a license and spreading hate speech online, he has not been arrested or prosecuted. This article highlights the urgency of prosecuting Asari Dokubo and explores the double standard in law enforcement that appears to be at play.
The Violations of Nigerian Law
In the video clip that went viral on social media, Asari Dokubo can be seen brandishing two AK-47 rifles while making derogatory and threatening statements about the Igbo people. Under Nigeria’s Firearms Act No 32 of 1959, it is illegal for any individual to possess firearms or ammunition without a license from the president or the inspector-general of police. The law imposes a minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for offenders upon conviction.
Furthermore, Dokubo’s hate speech and incitement to violence against the Igbo people are in direct violation of the Cybercrime Act of 2015. This act prohibits the distribution of racist or xenophobic material through a computer system or network, as well as threatening or insulting individuals based on their race, ethnicity, or religion. Offenders, upon conviction, can face imprisonment for up to five years or a substantial fine.
Double Standard in Law Enforcement
Despite the clear evidence of Asari Dokubo’s violations of the Firearms Act and the Cybercrime Act, he has not faced any legal consequences. This stands in stark contrast to other cases where individuals have been arrested and charged for similar offenses. For instance, a pastor was arrested for brandishing an AK-47 rifle during a church service, and a social media user was arrested for making anti-Igbo hate speech. Both cases were treated seriously and resulted in legal actions.
Another concerning aspect is the case of Godwin Emefiele, the suspended governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. He was charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, and the State Security Service (SSS) acted swiftly in his case. The contrast in how the authorities handled Emefiele’s case compared to Dokubo’s raises questions about equal treatment before the law.
The Impact on National Unity
Asari Dokubo’s inflammatory rhetoric and the lack of accountability can have serious implications for national unity in Nigeria. The country is already facing ethnic and regional tensions, and Dokubo’s threats against the Igbo people can exacerbate these divisions. Allowing such behaviour to go unpunished sends a message that hates speech and threats against any ethnic group may be tolerated, which can fuel further unrest and animosity among different communities.
Conclusion
The failure of Nigerian authorities to arrest and prosecute Asari Dokubo for his threatening remarks and possession of firearms is a grave concern. The rule of law must be upheld without bias or discrimination, and all individuals should be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or affiliations. Prosecuting Dokubo will not only send a strong message against hate speech and incitement to violence but will also reaffirm the commitment to national unity and cohesion in Nigeria. It is essential for the authorities to act swiftly to restore public confidence in the justice system and demonstrate that no one is above the law.
Written by Nwokwu Chukwuemeka (Obinwannem News correspondent Ebonyi State)
Published by Ugwu Okechukwu (Obinwanne ndi Igbo)
