The Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square has acquitted Frederick Nwajagu, the self-styled “Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate,” of all terrorism-related charges filed against him since his incarceration in 2023. However, the court sentenced him to 12 months in prison for impersonating a certified chief, contrary to the Oba and Chiefs Law of Lagos State.
Nwajagu had been accused of threatening to invite members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to Lagos to safeguard Igbo lives and property amidst alleged attacks. Arrested in April 2023, he was denied bail and detained at Ikoyi Custodial Centre until his trial before Justice Yetunde Adesanya.
Delivering judgment on January 15, 2025, Justice Adesanya discharged and acquitted Nwajagu of nine counts related to terrorism, including attempting to commit acts of terrorism, financing terrorism, and associating with a proscribed group. The court ruled that the prosecution failed to substantiate the terrorism allegations.
Nwajagu’s lawyer, Chief Fabian Onwughalu, revealed the court’s verdict in a statement, expressing relief over the acquittal. However, Onwughalu confirmed the conviction for impersonation, explaining that Nwajagu was penalized for parading himself as a chief in Lagos State, which contravenes local laws.
“Although painful, this victory is significant for Igbo people globally, particularly those in Lagos who face persecution and discrimination due to their ethnic identity,” Onwughalu stated.
Despite the partial victory, the legal team plans to appeal the conviction, arguing that the Ezeigbo institution is not recognized under Lagos law and that the ruling infringes on the constitutional right to freedom of association.
Having already spent nearly two years in custody, Nwajagu has been ordered released immediately. His defense team, which provided pro bono services, emphasized their commitment to securing justice for him and the broader Igbo community.