In anticipation of the gubernatorial election scheduled for November 11, 2023, the Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed distress over purported acts of coercion and imprisonment targeting its members, allegedly orchestrated by Governor Hope Uzodimma and the local police force.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The PDP contends that these actions have a clear political motive, aiming to instill fear among the state’s populace, particularly within the media and the opposition PDP….CONTINUE READING
Emenike Nmeregini, the acting state publicity secretary of the PDP, made these concerns public during a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Owerri.
He asserted that this crackdown is being executed by state security agencies, acting at the behest of the ruling APC administration, with the intention of obstructing the PDP’s campaign to restore safety in the state.
The party vehemently demands the immediate release of Chisom Mark and an end to the planned arrests of PDP members and officials featured on Uzodimma’s list.
The PDP suggests that if Chisom Mark has committed an offense that necessitates action, it should be handled through legal means rather than his continued detention in police custody.
Moreover, the PDP strongly condemns the deployment of state authority for harassment, intimidation, unlawful arrests, and detention of law-abiding citizens. These actions are seen as a violation of their constitutionally protected rights to personal freedom and freedom of expression.
The party appeals urgently to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and other high-ranking security officials to address this precarious situation in the state.
On the part of the Imo State government, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon Declan Emelumba, stated their primary focus is currently on serving the citizens and ensuring their welfare.
He emphasized that the administration is dedicated and does not have time to address what they consider frivolous matters.
Simultaneously, the PDP, represented by its legal adviser, Kissinger Ikeoku, has rejected the verdict of the Justice Anthony Akpovi-led three-man panel of the National and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal, which nullified the party’s victory and that of its two candidates.
In a statement released from the party’s headquarters, the PDP has characterized the judgment as an astonishing embarrassment and a mockery of the nation’s judicial system.
