The chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) Caretaker Committee in Edo State, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi has condemned what he described as the political harassment, witch hunt and attempt to shut down voices of the opposition in the state.
The party’s statement followed the marking for demolition of the country home of the House of Representatives member, Hon Marcus Onobun and others by agents of the Edo State government over allegations bordering on cult related activities.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), lawmaker represents Esan West and Esan Central federal constituency at the National Assembly,
Onobun who is a former speaker of the State House of Assembly, was alleged to have convened a meeting of cultists in his residence located at Iruekpen, Esan West local government area of the state.
Onobun described the state government’s action on Monday as politically motivated and illegal and challenged the government to provide proof of the allegations.
Aziegbemi, in a statement yesterday, said, “This brazen move by the state government represents a disturbing abuse of power and a misuse of legislation to target political opponents.
“The Anti-Cultism Law, as passed, clearly stipulates that property can only be subject to forfeiture or demolition after a valid conviction by a competent court of law. At present, there is no such conviction against Hon. Onobun and Hon. Aigbogun, only baseless, unsubstantiated allegations. This is not law enforcement; it is a political witch-hunt.
“We wish to remind the Edo State Government that Nigeria is governed by law, not by executive fiat. The weaponisation of laws to stifle opposition voices and intimidate perceived political rivals is not only a threat to democracy in Edo State but a dangerous precedent for the rest of the country.
“The PDP strongly condemns this vindictive action and calls on all well-meaning citizens, civil society organisations, and the international community to speak out against this injustice,” he said.
The statement further stressed, “We demand an immediate halt to the planned demolitions and call on the Edo State Government to retrace its steps and respect the legal rights and fundamental freedoms of Hon. Onobun, Hon. Aigbogun and all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation”.
