A Nigerian court has ordered the police to return the vehicle of Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), which was seized in February 2025. The ruling brings a legal end to a nine-month long seizure that started when police took the vehicle for an investigation.
The Ebonyi State Police Command had earlier stated that Igboayaka was not abducted but was being investigated based on a petition. The petition accused him of sharing false information that could disrupt peace and cause instability in communities within Ebonyi State . Police spokesperson SP Joshua Ukandu said the command was investigating these claims. He stated that once the investigation was completed, Igboayaka would be charged in court . The command also reaffirmed its commitment to doing its job within the limits of the law and respecting individual rights .
The court's new order to return the property signals the conclusion of this specific part of the legal matter. It shows the role of the judiciary in resolving disputes between citizens and law enforcement agencies. This case highlights the legal processes that follow when police take property for an investigation.
The police's initial action was part of their mandate to look into serious allegations. The petition against the youth leader claimed his actions risked breaking the peace in the state. Police investigated these allegations to see if they had merit. The command made it clear that their work would follow the law and respect people's rights .
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo is a major socio-cultural group for the Igbo people. The Ohanaeze Youth Council is its youth wing. The president of this council is a visible figure, making this case a point of public discussion.
The court's decision to return the vehicle is a key development. It shows that the court has made a final decision on the status of the seized property. This case underlines the importance of the judiciary in overseeing law enforcement actions and protecting citizens' rights.
For now, this ruling settles the matter of the seized vehicle. The police have complied with the court's order, closing this chapter in the dispute.