By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Democratic Congress has accused authorities in Kogi State of orchestrating the alleged unlawful arrest and detention of one of its members, Faruk Ozigi Onimisi, warning of possible legal consequences if the situation is not addressed.
According to an official signed statement by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary and Spokesperson of the party, Hon. Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, the individual was reportedly taken from his residence in Kubwa, Abuja, and transferred to Lokoja, where he is currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department of the Nigeria Police Force.
The party alleged that the arrest was carried out in a manner it described as forceful and irregular, claiming that the detainee is being held without access to legal representation, family members, or formal charges.
The statement further alleged that the arrest may be linked to plans by the individual to organise a civic protest, which the party said falls within constitutionally guaranteed rights to peaceful assembly and association.
The NDC called on the Kogi State Police Command to either release the detainee immediately or formally charge him to court in line with due process, insisting that prolonged detention without trial constitutes a violation of fundamental human rights.
The party also raised concerns over what it described as a pattern of harassment and intimidation of opposition figures in the state, urging the government led by Ahmed Usman Ododo to ensure that democratic principles and the rule of law are upheld.
It warned that continued actions perceived as repression against its members could prompt the party to pursue legal redress against both the state government and security agencies, including escalation to regional and international judicial bodies.
While urging its supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, the NDC reaffirmed its commitment to seeking justice through lawful means and called for the protection of political freedoms in Kogi State.
