The Ebonyi Transparency and Accountability Network (ETAN) has joined numerous individuals and organisations condemning the abduction and detention of the Labour Party Candidate for the 2023 Ebonyi South Senatorial election, Hon Linus Abaa Okorie, by Ebubeagu operatives on Sunday, October 16.
In statement on Wednesday, jointly signed by Okey Nwosu (President) and Ikechukwu Igbo (Secretary), for and on behalf of ETAN, the group said that the abduction of Okorie and alleged threats against opposition in the state is a red flag that the 2023 general elections in the state will not be free, fair, peaceful and credible.
While demanding immediate release of Okorie, ETAN urged the Ebonyi State Government and the Inspector General of Police to investigate the matter in order to bring the culprits to book.
The statement reads: “We note with dismay the alleged abduction and torture of Hon. Linus Okorie, a former House of
Representatives member from Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, Ebonyi State by members of the South East Vigilante outfit, Ebubeagu on Sunday night, 16th October, 2022 on his way home in Abakaliki.
“We strongly condemn that assault on Hon. Okorie in violation of his right and dignity as a citizen of Ebonyi State
and Nigeria and therefore call for his immediate release.
“We note that such a heinous act of intimidation, harassment and threat to life under any guise make mockery
of our constitutional democracy in which the protection of lives and rights of citizens should be guaranteed by
security agencies.
” It also negates the underlying imperatives behind the establishment of Ebubeagu. Such an incident, allegedly having a political undertone, is capable of heating up the polity, with undesirable
consequences, if not urgently addressed.
“We also note with deep worry the alarm raised by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) on its Deputy
Gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Nkata Chukwu and other candidates and members of the Party, who have been
allegedly marked for attacks by political opponents, ahead of the upcoming 2023 general elections.
“Such threats of violence and intimidation of opposition are redflags to achieving free, fair, peaceful and credible elections. We condemn any form of persecution of perceived political opponents in Ebonyi State.”
They added: “In view of the foregoing, as an organization that is committed to ensuring good governance, transparency and accountability, and deepening democracy in Ebonyi State, we call on the Ebonyi State Government and the
Inspector General of Police to investigate the matter.
“This is with a view to: a. Bringing to book the perpetrators of that heinous act against Hon. Linus Okorie;
“b. Uncovering and neutralizing any plans of violent attacks and intimidation by any political party and their
agents whatsoever in the State, such as alleged by APGA;
*b. Ensuring that rule of law and due process are adhered to in the enforcement of law and order in the State;
*c. Ensuring a peaceful and secure atmosphere and a fair playing ground for all political parties and opposition
in Ebonyi State, especially during this period of campaign, leading to the 2023 general elections.
“It is imperative that the Government of Ebonyi State commits to providing a safe and level playing ground for all political parties and activities in the State.
“We also call on our fellow citizens of Ebonyi State to remain calm and law-abiding with the confidence that the
petitioned authorities will address the concerns raised herein.”