PDP Condemn Arrest of Akwa Ibom Publicity Secretary Ewa Okpo

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) don condemn the arrest of Ewa Okpo, Publicity Secretary of the party for Akwa Ibom State, describing the development as an attempt to suppress freedom of speech.

For one statement wey the party release on Tuesday, the PDP say Okpo was invited and is currently being questioned by officers of the Quick Intervention Unit, Ikot Akpan Abia, following a petition reportedly filed by former Senator Effiong Bob.

According to the opposition party, the matter wey lead to the petition is civil in nature and no require police intervention.

The PDP, however, express hope say the Nigeria Police Force go handle the matter professionally and in line with the law.

The party also condemn what it describe as attempts by influential individuals to use security agencies to intimidate or harass people because of their political views or exercise of their constitutional right to freedom of expression.

According to the statement, the National Chairman of the PDP Interim National Working Committee has directed the party’s National Legal Adviser to immediately set up a high-powered legal team to represent Ewa Okpo and another party member in Akwa Ibom State who the party claims is facing similar intimidation.

The PDP insist say it will continue to defend any of its officials or members who are arrested, threatened or intimidated while exercising their constitutional or political rights.

The party maintained that freedom of speech and political participation remain fundamental rights guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.