A coalition of environmental organizations has condemned the arrest and detention of Odey Oyama, an environmental activist, by the Nigerian Police. The groups argue that this incident reflects an alarming trend of repression and abuse in the country.
The statement, endorsed by multiple organizations, including Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), We the People, Policy Alert, and several others, highlights the arrest of Oyama and six others on January 14, 2025. Police officers from the Ikom division in Cross River State reportedly took Oyama from his home in Okuni and transported him to Calabar, where he was held without legal representation or formal charges for at least 24 hours.
Odey Oyama, the director of the Rainforest Resource and Development Centre (RRDC), is recognized for his efforts to protect Cross River State’s rainforests and biodiversity. His activism has often put him at odds with illegal loggers and businesses accused of environmental degradation. Recently, Oyama campaigned against Chinese businesses and local collaborators allegedly responsible for the deforestation of the Effi Rainforest.
The coalition’s statement criticizes the police for disregarding due process and attempting to suppress dissenting voices, especially when business interests are involved. It notes that Oyama has yet to be formally charged with any offense, emphasizing the police’s role in undermining his environmental advocacy.
The statement also highlights the broader issue of increasing government intolerance toward civil society activities, particularly in Cross River State, where arrests of journalists and activists have become more frequent. The coalition expressed concern over the shrinking civic space and the police’s involvement in this trend.
The groups called for the immediate release of Odey Oyama and his associates, urging the police to cease further hostile actions against them. They pledged to pursue all legitimate avenues to defend Oyama’s right to peaceful advocacy.
