A Nigerian court has discharged and acquitted human rights defender, Emmanuel Acha, after spending more than eight months in detention, a case that has drawn national attention to the shrinking civic space and the growing risks faced by activists in the country.

Acha, a civil society leader and advocate, recounted how he was arrested from his home in Enugu by security operatives on March 19, 2025, and taken away without a warrant. He said he was moved between police formations before being transferred to Abakaliki, where he was held in custody and later remanded at the Abakaliki Correctional Centre.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos to mark his acquittal, Acha described the experience as traumatic, saying he was denied access to his family and lawyers in the early days of his detention and subjected to harsh and degrading conditions while in custody.

“I was taken without explanation, detained without access to counsel and held for months on allegations that were never proven. What I went through reflects the dangers many human rights defenders face in this country.”

Acha added that he spent about 276 days in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, which took a toll on his health, family life and livelihood.

The activist was charged with offences including promoting communal violence and unlawful possession of firearms. However, his legal team told journalists that the prosecutors failed to present credible evidence to support the allegations.

His lead counsel, Ikeazor Akaraiwe (SAN), said the case collapsed because the prosecution could not establish any of the elements required by law.

He explained that no weapons were recovered, no witnesses testified to any act of violence, and no evidence linked Acha to the crimes alleged.

Akaraiwe said, “The court found that there was no basis for the charges. There was no overt act, no proof of intent, and no evidence whatsoever. The prosecution simply failed to make a case.”

“The judge demonstrated courage and independence. The decision reaffirmed that the courts can still serve as a refuge for citizens when other institutions fail.

Calling for reforms to protect human rights defenders and prevent the misuse of security agencies, Acha also appealed for compensation for victims of wrongful detention and stronger safeguards to prevent future abuses.

“My case is not just about me, it is about the many Nigerians who are silenced, intimidated or detained for speaking up. Justice must go beyond acquittal. It must include accountability and protection for citizens”, he noted.