FIDA Explains Involvement in Walida's Case

Barrister Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria Abuja Branch, has clarified the organization's involvement in the matter concerning Walida, also referred to as Chinasa. She explained that FIDA was contacted last month by an operative from the Department of State Services (DSS) who sought their advice regarding an alleged abduction of a young girl from Jigawa State.

Upon receiving the inquiry, Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko met with the individual in question and conducted an interview. Based on this interview, she noted that the allegations of abduction did not appear entirely accurate. Walida presented as coherent and lucid, providing an account that convinced the FIDA chairperson of its truthfulness. According to documents reviewed, including an authentication from the National Population Commission (NPC), Walida's year of birth is stated as 2004, which would make her 22 years old. This contradicts another birth certificate, reportedly procured in December 2025, which listed her birth year as 2008. If her birth year is indeed 2004, Walida would not be underage and would have been approximately 20 years old when she encountered the individual accused of abducting her.

Regarding a committee formed to address the issue, Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko confirmed awareness of a team working towards a resolution, though not officially designated as a committee. FIDA Nigeria Abuja Branch is participating alongside a scholar from Baze University and representatives from the Muslim Lawyers Association (Mulan), FCT. This collaborative effort aims to ensure a comprehensive and balanced approach to the case.

On the matter of evaluating Walida's psychological state, Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko stated she had attended two previous meetings and was present for a third. She reported that during a meeting she did not attend, the lawyer representing Walida's family suggested a psychological evaluation to confirm her state of mind. Following this suggestion, a resolution was made to proceed with the evaluation, which subsequently took place.

Concerning the location of the evaluation, she acknowledged reports that it was initially planned for the National Hospital but later involved the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA). While not present at that specific meeting, she indicated that the information reaching her aligns with the reports. Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko expressed a personal preference for a neutral, regulatory body like the NMA to conduct such an assessment in a sensitive case, though she did not question the integrity of the National Hospital.

Addressing the absence of Walida's parents or lawyers at the current meeting, despite their earlier agreement on the date, Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko stated she had no direct interaction with them and therefore could not provide an explanation for their non-attendance. She found their absence surprising given the unanimous agreement on the meeting date.

FIDA's role, as explained by its chairperson, has been to uphold its mandate of protecting the rights of women and children. This involved interviewing Walida directly to ascertain the truth of her account, independent of secondary reports or petitions. Convinced by Walida's testimony, FIDA advocated for an expanded team to provide a more balanced perspective, leading to the inclusion of other organizations like Mulan and the Youth Council. FIDA's primary focus remains the best interests of Walida and her daughter.

Regarding the resolution of the issue, Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko stressed the importance of setting aside personal egos and sensitivities. She believes focusing on the well-being of Walida and her child will lead to appropriate outcomes. She also noted that if the same level of effort exerted by Walida's family now had been applied when she initially went missing, she might have been found sooner. It was the man accused of abducting her who facilitated contact with her family.

She clarified that her comments were not an endorsement of the DSS operative, Ifeanyi, as she has not met him and does not represent him. Her focus remains solely on Walida and her daughter.

When asked about the parents' demands for Walida's release, Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko highlighted that Walida herself is present and can speak for herself. However, she shared a private conversation with Walida where the young woman expressed fear of returning, stating, "please Ma, don’t let them force me to go back there. If I go back there, they will kill me. I know what I’m telling you, Ma, don’t let them force me, I don’t want to go back." Barrister Onyenucheya-Uko promised Walida her full support to ensure her protection.

In conclusion, FIDA intends to remain actively involved in any legal proceedings that affect Walida's interests and rights. They are committed to protecting and promoting her rights throughout the entire process.