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 opposition voices and suppress constitutionally guaranteed freedom of speech.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said Okpo was arrested following a petition reportedly filed by Effiong Bob over comments made in the exercise of his constitutional right to free expression.
The party said it had established contact with the police and confirmed that Okpo was being questioned by officers of the Quick Intervention Unit in Ikot Akpan Abia.
“We have made contact and are aware that the police authorities at the Quick Intervention Unit, Ikot Akpan Abia, are currently interviewing Ewa on the subject of the petition, which is ex facie civil in nature, not requiring the intervention of the police. However, we are hopeful that the police will exhibit professionalism in the discharge of their duties,” the statement read.
The PDP accused influential individuals of using security agencies to harass perceived political opponents.
“We strongly condemn any attempt by highly placed people to use security agencies to hound and intimidate real or perceived opponents into political submission,” the party said.
The opposition party disclosed that its Interim National Chairman had directed the National Legal Adviser to constitute a high-powered legal team to defend Okpo and another party member in Akwa Ibom State.
“The National Chairman of the Interim National Working Committee has directed the National Legal Adviser to immediately set up a high-powered legal team to provide legal representation to Ewa Okpo, Esq., and another party faithful in Akwa Ibom State who has been targeted for oppression by anti-free speech persons or institutions,” the statement added.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to defending members against what it described as intimidation and violations of their constitutional and political rights.
“The party will defend any of its official or member who is arrested, intimidated or threatened in the course of the exercise of their fundamental or political rights, which are protected by the Constitution,” the party stated.