The Forum of Local Government Area Chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, has condemned in strong terms the alleged incessant attacks on its members in Ikwerre and Abua/Odual Local Government Areas of the state.
In a communique issued on Tuesday, the Forum expressed dismay over reports of intimidation, harassment and physical assault on ADC members who were peacefully exercising their constitutional right of association.
The communique was made available to TPCN by ADC PHALGA Chairman, who is also the Coordinating Chairman, Mr Emmanuel Chike Orlu, Tai Chairman, Mr Teneden Zornata-Akekue, Bonny Chairman, Bibem Bobby Pollyn, Joel Wigwe of Ikwerre LGA.
Others were, Elder George NwaJoku of Etche LGA, Bestman Nnadi-Ahoada East, Baramu Nwigbaranzee-Khana, Otani O. Chambalin-Oyigbo, Tonye Brandtle-AkukuToru, Okoro Joshua-ONELGA.
Other ADC LGA chairmen present during the meeting were, Charles Agi-DELGA, Bro Steve IJu Batubo-ASALGA, Jephter Alaka-Andoni, Gokana Moses Kanabolo-Gokana, Felix Ekpendu- Omuma, Ichendu Achineinhu Alexander-Emohua, Enyinna Edwin Brown-Opobo/Nkoro, Samuel Anga Chim-Ogu/Bolo, Onungwe Jack Nkpon-Eleme.
In the communique, “the forum called on security agencies in the state to rise to their constitutional duty of protecting lives and properties by bringing the perpetrators of political violence in Ikwerre and Abua/Odual LGAs to book.
“The Chairmen also condemned the alleged use of a local vigilante group, OSPAC, to intimidate, harass and assault ADC members and other law-abiding citizens of Ikwerre LGA.
“The use of an unconventional security outfit to settle political scores is unacceptable and must be stopped. OSPAC should not be used as a tool for political witch-hunting,” the statement reads in part.
The Forum further stressed that the right to freedom of association as enshrined in Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) must be protected.
“ADC is a peaceful and law-abiding party. We will not be intimidated. No amount of harassment will stop the will of the people. We have come to rescue Rivers State and Nigeria,” the Forum stated.
The Chairmen urged the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to intervene immediately to forestall further breakdown of law and order in Ikwerre and Abua/Odual LGAs.
