ABUJA, Nigeria – Ahead of the May 5th sentencing of Nigerian Senator Ike Ekweremadu in the United Kingdom, the House of Representatives has made an impassioned plea to the UK government to “temper justice with mercy.”
Ekweremadu, his wife, and their doctor were convicted in March for organ trafficking in a groundbreaking verdict under the Modern Slavery Act.
During the appeal on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, House member Toby Okechukwu, who introduced the motion, underscored the longstanding history and cordial relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
He also highlighted Ekweremadu’s contributions to the Commonwealth of Nations and his seemingly innocent intention to save the life of his sick daughter, Sonia.
“There should be back channels for diplomatic interventions,” Okechukwu insisted, his voice cracking with emotion. He recalled how the former Deputy Senate President had come to the aid of many Nigerians in the past.
Speaker of the House, Femi Gbajabiamila, spoke to the crowd, describing Ekweremadu as a good man with no prior convictions.
He urged the UK court to consider Ekweremadu’s history of rightful living and the reputation of his wife, Beatrice.
Gbajabiamila also appealed for consideration for their daughter, who is sick and would likely be separated from her parents if the court proceeds with its sentencing.
Ekweremadu, 60; his wife, Beatrice, 56; and Dr Obinna Obeta, 51, were found guilty of facilitating a young man’s travel to Britain with a view to his exploitation after a six-week trial at the Old Bailey.
The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have lasting repercussions for the ongoing battle against human trafficking and modern slavery.
