Our Reporter from Abuja
Ahmad Arab Azare
The chairman of Hadejia Ina Mafita Initiative, Dr Hussain Shehu, has raised fresh concerns over what he described as delay and alleged non-compliance with court orders in the matter.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists, Shehu explained that his organisation, operating under the Adrian Amavata Initiative, is a community-based group rooted in the same locality where the incident occurred, and from where Walida and her parents originate.
According to him, immediately the organisation became aware of the incident, its members paid a visit to Walida’s family in Hadejia to obtain first-hand information.
He said extensive discussions were held with Walida’s father, during which it was confirmed that reports earlier published by lawyers, civil society organisations and the media accurately reflected the facts surrounding the case.
“The father told us that for over two years, the family had been searching for Walida without success. Being a local man with limited resources, he exhausted all the available options and eventually resigned everything to God,” Dr Shehu said.
He revealed that before the matter gained wider public attention, the father had already instituted legal action.
He added that members of the Association of Hadejia Emirate Lawyers are part of the Adrian Amavata Initiative, including the counsel engaged by the family, making the organisation closely involved in monitoring the legal process.
Shehu stressed that since the matter is already before a competent court, the role of civil society groups has been limited to advocacy and ensuring that due process is followed.
FOMWAN calls for her release
Also, The Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has called for the immediate release of Walida.
In a statement signed by its National Amira, Hajiya Sumaye Fadimatu Hamza, and National Secretary, Hauwa Kulu Abdullahi, the organisation said it followed the case with deep concern, describing the situation as unacceptable and disturbing.
The FOMWAN noted that despite a court ruling weeks ago against the individual allegedly responsible for Walida’s abduction, the accused had not been handed over to the appropriate law enforcement authorities for investigation and prosecution.
“As a faith-based women organisation committed to the protection of women, children, human dignity and justice, we insist that no individual is above the law,” the statement noted.
The group stressed that the rights of a child must be protected at all times in line with Nigerian laws, Islamic principles and international conventions, to which Nigeria is a signatory, adding that justice delayed is justice denied, especially in matters involving minors.
The FOMWAN called on the relevant authorities to comply fully with the court order for Walida’s release and reunification with her parents, and ensure that all the allegations are thoroughly and transparently investigated without obstruction or favouritism.
The organisation also urged civil society groups, religious bodies and human rights organisations to continue peaceful advocacy to ensure justice and preserve public confidence in the justice system.
Speaking to Weekend Trust, an Islamic cleric, Abubakar Adam, condemned the development, saying, “Even if he was a Muslim, it is forbidden to have sexual intercourse with a woman you are not married to.
“In Islam, the consent of parents is one of the requirements a man must fulfill before marrying a woman, so justice needs to take its course by the prosecution of Ifeanyi and his accomplices. I believe an extensive and thorough investigation should be conducted to stop such menace and protect our families and children.
“I read their lawyer’s notes and I feel the pain is raw and the family is broken. The girl was kidnapped and hidden for two years under sexual violation and forceful conversion, and her mother died eventually from the psychological trauma. We pray for the mother and hope the entire Walida family receives justice.”
It is wrong for DSS to disobey court orders – Lawyers
Aliemeka Enwere, a lawyer, said it’s wrong to disobey court orders except there is existence of counter case filed to vacate the existing order and show exceptional circumstances.
“As long as that judgement or order of court is there, the Service is bound to obey it. It may not be as it wishes; that is why anyone that feels aggrieved should approach the court to set it aside for her to be able to stay,” he said.
On his part, Ebuka Nwaeze, a lawyer, said if the girl in question is above 18 years, she is an adult under the law and can make her decisions, including freedom of association, while religious or parental opinions are advisory.
“She has the right to freedom of expression, association, movement and conscience and religion. Even the DSS has no right to take her into custody against her will, except she is under threat of harm,” he explained.