The Ukomu Igala Organization (UIO) Worldwide has called for an independent investigation into the arrest and detention of Mallam Abdulwahab Tijani, popularly known as Tony-Tony, and urged the Federal Government to address the effects of coal mining activities in Kogi East.
In a press release signed by its National Leader, Maj Gen JAMES A ATAGUBA (rtd) fdc Ph.D, and dated August 20, 2026, the group said it “remains firmly committed to pursuing lawful, peaceful and constitutional means of seeking justice for Mallam Abdulwahab Tijani, popularly known as Tony-Tony that was brutally arrested and incarcerated by the authorities.”
“Following reports concerning his alleged physical assault and continued detention at the Koton-Karfi Correctional Facility, the Organization has formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding an urgent, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his brutal arrest, alleged assault and continuous detention without trial,” the statement said.
The UIO expressed concern over “reports of injuries that Mr Tony-Tony sustained on his head and in the face in the course of his brutal arrest allegedly by some local vigilante operatives on the orders of the Chairman of Ankpa Local Government Council.”
“We therefore call on the relevant authorities to urgently establish his current physical condition and whereabouts, guarantee his safety, ensure that he receives appropriate medical attention if necessary, and take appropriate action against any person (s) that is connected with the unlawful brutal manner of his arrest while following due process of investigation, if he is presumed to have violated any law.”
*Responsible Mining and Community Interests*
On mining, the group said it “has also engaged the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development over concerns of our people on the impact of mining activities in Kogi East.”
The UIO is seeking “a constructive stakeholders’ dialogue involving government authorities, mining operators, host communities and other relevant stakeholders on critical issues related to ongoing mining activities in Kogi East; including public health and safety, environmental protection, destruction of critical infrastructure such as roads, community development and need for responsible mining practices.”
“Our position on coal mining in Kogi East is clear: mineral exploitation and development must be a WIN-WIN endeavour for all,” the organization stated.
“Accordingly, it is expected that the natural resources beneath the soils of our communities should contribute to national development while also delivering tangible benefits to the people and communities that host exploitation activities. Host communities must not be left with unsafe mining sites, damaged roads, environmental degradation or diminished livelihoods.”
The group called for “stronger and stricter enforcement of environmental, safety and community-development standards as well as meaningful engagement with affected communities.”
*Call for Justice and Calm*
“To the relevant authorities, our message is simple: Protect our people. Enforce the law. Uphold due process. Investigate allegations transparently. And ensure that justice prevails,” the release said.
“To the Igala people both in Nigeria and all over the world, we appeal for calm, cooperation with the authorities, unity and hope while UIO pursues the matter lawfully.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, we will like to reiterate that UIO Worldwide will continue to pursue the matters connected to undesirable consequences of coal mining in Kogi East through lawful, constitutional and peaceful channels. We believe that justice is strongest when pursued with courage, restraint and respect for the rule of law.”
The organization concluded: “We remain committed to the protection of our communities, the responsible exploitation and development of our natural resources and the advancement of the Igala race and land. WE STAND FOR JUSTICE, PEACE, UNITY & PROGRESS.”
The UIO Board of Trustees is chaired by Dr. Mike Idachaba, Ph.D, with Rev. Paul Audu, FCA as Secretary. Other members include HRH Enejoh. J. Haruna, Hajia Salamatu Umar-Eluma, Jibrin S. Okutepa, SAN, and Dr. Victor A. Adoji, Ph.D.