NDC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Political Persecution in Kogi

***Seeks Release of Detained Defector
By John Akubo, Abuja
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised fresh concerns over what it described as escalating political persecution in Kogi State, alleging a pattern of intimidation and unlawful arrests targeting opposition members.
In a statement issued in Abuja by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Abdulmumin Ohiare Abdulsalam, the party condemned the alleged arrest and continued detention of Faruk Ozigi Onimisi, a recent defector from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC.
The party claimed that Onimisi was picked up from his residence in Kubwa, Abuja, in what it described as a “forceful and irregular operation,” before being moved to Lokoja, where he is reportedly being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
According to the NDC, the arrest may be linked to his alleged involvement in plans for a civic protest, a claim it said does not justify what it termed a violation of due process.
The party further alleged that the detainee has been denied access to legal representation, family members, and court proceedings, describing the conditions of his detention as unacceptable.
“This is a clear breach of constitutional rights. No citizen should be detained indefinitely without charge,” the statement said, calling for his immediate release or prompt arraignment before a competent court.
The NDC warned that the situation reflects a broader climate of political intolerance, particularly against opposition figures, and urged security agencies to maintain neutrality and professionalism.
It also called on the Kogi State Government to uphold democratic principles and respect citizens’ rights to lawful assembly and expression.
While expressing concern over the development, the party urged its supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that it would pursue legal and institutional channels to address the matter.
The statement concluded with a broader call for adherence to the rule of law, warning that actions perceived as politically motivated could undermine public trust in democratic institutions.