Uyo Rally: Obidient Coordinators Demand Immediate Release of Ben Smith, Others
The Forum of State Coordinators of the Obidient Movement has demanded the immediate release of Dr Ben Smith, the group’s Akwa Ibom State Coordinator, and other members reportedly detained following an Independence Day political gathering in Uyo.
The group in a statement issued on Thursday expressed concern over the reported arrests and alleged use of force and tear gas during the confrontation between security personnel and supporters of the Obi-Kwankwaso political movement.
The Forum said participants were engaged in peaceful political activity and alleged that some members were subjected to molestation or other forms of mistreatment.
“We condemn the reported use of force and tear gas, as well as allegations of molestation or other mistreatment, against participants who were engaged in a peaceful political rally,” the statement said.
The group called on security agencies to ensure that any use of force is “lawful, necessary and proportionate” and that the rights and dignity of citizens are protected.
The demand follows reports that police arrested members of the movement during efforts to stop an Independence Day march in Uyo.
No fewer than eight persons were allegedly arrested while police denied that firearms were used and said the arrests followed alleged violations of security directives and activities capable of causing a breach of public peace.
Reports also indicate that Smith was subsequently arrested after accompanying supporters seeking the release of other detained members.
The Forum therefore asked the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrests and disclose where the detainees are being held.
“We call on the Akwa Ibom State Government, Inspector-General of Police and relevant authorities to immediately clarify the circumstances of the reported arrests, disclose where those detained are being held and ensure that their constitutional rights and due process are fully respected,” they said.
They further demanded the immediate release of the detainees if there is no lawful basis for continued detention.
The coordinators also called on the National Human Rights Commission and other oversight bodies to investigate the reported incidents and take appropriate action if rights violations are established.
The Forum said the National Peace Accord should serve as a reminder to political actors and security agencies of the need to maintain peaceful political participation and respect democratic processes.
“The Obidient Movement remains peaceful, disciplined and committed to lawful democratic participation,” the statement said.
The coordinators concluded by demanding justice, due process and the release of Dr. Ben Smith and other detained members where no lawful basis exists for their continued detention.
