From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
A coalition of civil society groups and human rights activists in Edo state on the platform of Civil Society Community Edo State, on Monday, protested the continued detention of two human rights activists, Kola Edokpayi and Hadson Orako.
They were arrested by men of the Department of State Services (DSS) over a plan to organise a pro Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso protest which was reportedly called off after their meeting with the Commissioner of Police but were still picked up by the DSS since April 30th.
The groups said they met with the leadership of the DSS who promised to release them on Friday but have failed to do that and to worsen the situation, they have been denied access to their lawyers, family members and associates and this has to be fuelled speculation that they may have been moved to Abuja.
In a statement signed by the Spokesperson and Legal Adviser of the group, Rev. David Ugolor and Abraham Oviawe, they expressed disappointment that the DSS did not meet its promise of releasing their comrades.
“This has given rise to growing concerns within our community, especially as it appears that the continued detention may exceed the period permissible under the law.
“We also wish to revisit the understanding reached at the meeting regarding the reasons for the arrest, which we had understood to have been amicably addressed by the Edo State Commissioner of Police.
“We remain concerned about the implications of this development on the longstanding and collaborative relationship between the Civil Society community in Edo State and your esteemed office- a relationship that has been built over the years on mutual respect and open dialogue.
“In light of this, we respectfully request an update on the current status of Mr. Edokpayi and Mr.Orako, including confirmation of any transfer, as is being speculated in some quarters. We would also appreciate clarity on any plans concerning their possible release.
“Additionally, we humbly urge your office to facilitate access to legal representation and family visits for the detained individuals in accordance with their constitutional rights and our shared commitment to justice and fairness.
“Please be assured that our preference for diplomacy and engagements rooted in our desire to maintain peace and partnership.”
Also speaking, Comrade Ogbidi Emmanuel, the President Network of Civil Society Organization of Nigeria (NOCSON), said the state has been so peaceful until the DSS decided to disturb its peace by continuously keeping the two human rights activists in their custody.
“So, for us, it is unacceptable. This country Nigeria is not a lawless land. This country Nigeria, we have the freedom of expression, we have the freedom of association and the right to thoughts.
“It is Edokpayi’s rights. Even though he has decided to call off the planned protest, it is his right to protest peacefully.
“So, the DSS are responsible for the unrest and for whatsoever you see happening in Edo state today because the state is a peaceful place.
“Therefore, we must call on the police intelligence, the army and other security agencies to call immediately the DSS to order to do the needful and release Edokpayi”, Ogbidi said.
He said that the protest is going to be continuous pending his release.