Nigeria News Today: NDC Condemns Alleged Illegal Arrest of Opposition Figure in Kogi, Threatens Legal Action
By Hon. Abdulmumin Ohiare Abdulsalam, Abuja
The Bureau News reports that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly condemned what it described as the harassment and illegal arrest of opposition figures and political dissents in Kogi State.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the party alleged that one of its members, Faruk Ozigi Onimisi, was unlawfully arrested and detained by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force.
The Bureau News: NDC Alleges Illegal Detention of Party Member
According to the statement, Onimisi, who recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC, was allegedly taken from his residence in Kubwa, Abuja, and transported to Lokoja, Kogi State.
The party claimed that the arrest was carried out in a manner resembling abduction and alleged that it was executed on the orders of the Kogi State Government.
It further stated that the detainee is being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the police in Lokoja.
Nigeria News Today: Claims of Rights Violations Surface
The NDC alleged that Onimisi is being held under inhumane conditions and subjected to continuous interrogation while in detention.
The party also claimed that he has been denied access to legal representation, family members, and has not been formally charged to court.
It described the situation as a violation of his fundamental human rights under Nigerian law.
Party Demands Immediate Release or Court Arraignment
The opposition party demanded the immediate release of its member or, alternatively, his prompt arraignment in court if any offence has been committed.
It maintained that the arrest was linked to alleged plans by the activist to organise a civic protest, which it described as a lawful democratic right.
The NDC called on authorities to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and association as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and relevant international frameworks.
NDC Warns of Legal and International Action
The party urged the Kogi State Police Command to desist from what it termed harassment and intimidation of opposition figures.
It warned that continued actions of this nature could lead to legal proceedings against both the state government and security agencies.
The NDC also indicated that it may escalate the matter to international bodies if the situation persists.
The Bureau News understands that the party has advised its members in Kogi State to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding while it considers further action through its national leadership structures.
