Obidient Movement Demands Release of Akwa Ibom Coordinator, Others
By Idun Maximus
The Forum of State Coordinators of the Obidient Movement has demanded the immediate release of its Akwa Ibom State Coordinator, Dr. Ben Smith, and other members reportedly detained after an Independence Day political rally in Uyo.
The group also called on the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to explain the circumstances surrounding the reported arrests and disclose the whereabouts of those detained.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by coordinators representing the six geopolitical zones, the group alleged that security personnel used force and tear gas during the rally.
It also alleged that some participants were subjected to molestation and other forms of mistreatment, describing the development as a threat to democratic participation.
The coordinators said any use of force by security personnel must be lawful, necessary and proportionate, while insisting that the rights and dignity of citizens engaged in peaceful political activities must be respected.
They urged the authorities to ensure that the detainees had access to due process and that their constitutional rights were protected.
“Where there is no lawful basis for continued detention, we respectfully call for their immediate release,” the statement said.
The group also called on the National Human Rights Commission and other relevant oversight bodies to investigate the reported incidents and take appropriate action if violations were established.
The forum said the Obidient Movement remained committed to peaceful and lawful political participation, urging political actors and security agencies to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.
It further referenced the National Peace Accord signed by political candidates, party leaders and other stakeholders, stressing the need for peaceful participation as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.
The statement was signed by Comr. Asemota Igiogbe, South South; Comr. Joseph Enan Maigari, North East; Dr. Miriam Suwese Apeverga (Selma), North Central; Comr. Imam Malik Mahmoud, North West; Comr. Ikenna Chukwude Claat, South East; and Hon. Ayo Akinyemi, South West.
