UDFW Petitions Soludo, Police Against Illegal Detention, Extortion By ARTMA Officials
The Unique Development Foundation for Women (UDFW), an advocacy group for the most vulnerable people in the society, has petitioned the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, over the alarming reports of harassment and extortion by operatives of the Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA).
UDFW, in a statement jointly signed by its Executive Director, Chief Eucharia Adukwulu and Director General, Mr Izuchukwu Ubah, expressed concerns over the disturbing trend of intimidation and unlawful practices by certain ARTMA officials.
The petition, which was also copied the Anambra House of Assembly, and Police Police Command, warned that illegal activities of ARTMA Brigade, especially in Onitsha not only undermined the rule of law but also threatened the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
The foundation reported the case of illegal arrest of a commercial bus by ARTMA operatives in Onitsha on trumped up charges with the intent to extort the driver.
The statement read in parts: “On Jan. 15, 2026, Mr Arinze Iloanusi’s commercial shuttle bus was wrongfully seized at a petrol station near the Mgbemena-Navy Checkpoint in Onitsha.
“UDFW’s investigation revealed that the accusations that he picked up passengers unlawfully were unfounded, raising questions about the integrity of the agency’s operations.
“Despite Iloanusi’s repeated requests for evidence to support the alleged wrongdoing and for the immediate release of his bus, his pleas were ignored.
” His vehicle remained in custody for five days at the ARTMA office behind Toronto Hospital until intervention from community leaders was made on January 22.
“This unjust detention resulted in significant financial losses for Iloanusi, estimated at over N500,000, severely impacting his livelihood.
The foundation, however, called for immediate investigation into the case to ensure that justice was done.
“The Anambra Police Command, led by CP Ikioye Orutugu, must oversee the investigation to ensure fairness and hold those accountable.
“We are also demanding that adequate compensation should be provided to Mr Okoye for the unlawful detention of his vehicle and the financial losses incurred,” it said .
UDFW also called for a swift review of the ARTMA operations, adding that a taskforce meant to promote cleanliness should not impose fear and injustice on the populace, especially motorists.
“As a foundation committed to advocating for justice, good governance, and the protection of vulnerable populations, we will closely monitor the situation until justice is achieved for those affected by the agency’s alleged abuses.
“The UDFW seeks to remind the Anambra State Government that the citizens’ rights must be respected in all circumstances”, it said.
