The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the recent arrest of its Akwa Ibom State Publicity Secretary, Ewa Okpo, describing the development as a blatant attempt to intimidate political opponents.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP raised alarms over the growing trend of political suppression and called for immediate intervention to protect democratic freedoms.
According to the party, Okpo was invited and is currently being questioned by police officers at the Quick Intervention Unit in Ikot Akpan Abia.
The detention follows a petition filed by former Senator Effiong Bob. While the PDP argued that the underlying matter is strictly civil in nature and should not warrant police intervention, the opposition party expressed hope that the law enforcement agency would handle the investigation professionally and without bias.
The statement further accused highly influential individuals of weaponizing state security agencies to harass and silence perceived political opponents.
The PDP issued a stern warning against these actions, stating that the misuse of security apparatuses poses a direct threat to freedom of speech and undermines the foundational democratic rights of Nigerian citizens.
In response to the situation, the National Chairman of the party’s Interim National Working Committee has taken swift action.
He has directed the National Legal Adviser to immediately constitute a dedicated legal team to represent Ewa Okpo, as well as another party member in Akwa Ibom State who is reportedly facing similar political intimidation.
Reaffirming its stance, the PDP maintained that it will not back down in the face of oppression. The party emphasized its unwavering commitment to defending its officials and members nationwide against any form of intimidation or violation of their constitutional and political rights.
