A man identified as Mr. Ben Emeka Ukeje has reportedly escaped from the custody of the Nigerian military, sparking an intensive manhunt by security operatives across the South-East region.
Ukeje, who was arrested on August 7, 2024, was being detained at the 82 Division Military Barracks in Enugu State following allegations by the Nigerian government and military authorities that he was affiliated with the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
According to military sources, the suspect escaped on July 1, 2025, under circumstances that remain unclear. An internal investigation is said to be underway to determine how he managed to evade the tight security at the military facility.
Officials have described Ukeje as a “high-profile detainee,” and intelligence units have reportedly been placed on alert in several southeastern states to track his whereabouts.
Human rights observers, however, have expressed concern over the handling of his case prior to the escape, noting that Ukeje had been in prolonged detention without a formal trial. Some advocacy groups have called for transparency and due process, emphasizing that allegations alone do not constitute guilt.
Meanwhile, it is alleged that the fugitive fears for his life.
As of the time of filing this report, military spokespersons have not provided further details on the incident or on steps being taken to recapture the suspect.