PDP condemns arrest of Akwa Ibom spokesman

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the arrest of its Akwa Ibom State Publicity Secretary, Ewa Okpo, describing the action as an attempt to intimidate political opponents and suppress freedom of expression.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party said it had been informed that Okpo was arrested following a petition filed by Senator Effiong Bob and is currently being questioned by police officers at the Quick Intervention Unit, Ikot Akpan Abia.

The PDP maintained that the issues raised in the petition are civil in nature and should not warrant police intervention. It, however, expressed confidence that the police would handle the matter professionally and in accordance with the law.

The party criticised what it described as the use of security agencies by influential individuals to harass and intimidate real or perceived political opponents.

“It is unacceptable for security agencies to be used to stifle dissent or force political submission,” the statement said, adding that public office holders should recognise that their actions and records remain open to public scrutiny.

The PDP also announced that its Interim National Working Committee had directed the National Legal Adviser to constitute a high-powered legal team to represent Okpo and another party member in Akwa Ibom, whom it alleged was being targeted for exercising constitutionally guaranteed rights.

Reaffirming its commitment to defending its members, the party said it would provide legal support to any official or member who is arrested, intimidated or threatened while exercising their constitutional or political rights.

The statement was signed by Comrade Ini Ememobong, National Publicity Secretary of the PDP Interim National Working Committee.