Emmanuel Ihejirika, a Nigerian man sentenced to death in Indonesia for drug trafficking, has been released from prison after several years, thanks to the dedicated work of Nigerian lawyer Emmanuel Isha Ogebe.

Ogebe, based in Washington, D.C., took on Ihejirika’s case pro bono, believing that Ihejirika had been wrongly convicted. His efforts included presenting the case to Indonesia’s Supreme Court, leading to Ihejirika’s release in December.

The Nigerian community was relieved and grateful. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), confirmed Ihejirika’s release and praised Ogebe for his commitment and compassion. Dabiri-Erewa recalled a previous visit to Indonesia, where Nigerian officials, including herself and former Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Ojo Madueke, sought clemency for 21 Nigerians on death row. While four of those individuals were executed, including an Indonesian and a British citizen, Ihejirika’s case continued to be a priority.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the seriousness of drug trafficking offenses in Indonesia, where the death penalty is a common punishment, and urged Nigerians to avoid criminal activities. She also acknowledged the support of Patricia Alechenu, the Nigerian Charge D’Affaires in Indonesia, throughout the legal process.

Ogebe thanked Dabiri-Erewa for her ongoing support and promised to continue assisting Nigerians facing similar legal challenges abroad. This case highlights the critical role of legal advocacy and international support in addressing wrongful convictions and upholding justice.