By Akinwale Kasali
There is palpable tension in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State over the arrest of Hon. Samuel Agada, a member of the Benue State House of Assembly, representing Ogbadibo constituency by the Police for allegedly assaulting a Police Officer.
It was gathered that Agada was arrested following an altercation with the Police when he went to secure the release of a constituent, and allegedly manhandled a Police Officer.
His Constituents have however protested his arrest by storming the Benue State Police Command, seeking for his immediate and unconditional release.
The protesters stated that Agada was manhandled unjustly by the Police. That, they said, infuriated his aides who protested against it.
A Youth leader in Ogbadibo, Ameh Ojema said: “The arrest of the Assembly Member is uncalled for as he was carrying out his constituency oversight for a constituent”.
He added that Agada’s travails may not be unconnected with the political dichotomy in the State.
Ojema added that Agada is believed to be neutral in the political dynamics in the State as he relates with everyone in his constituency irrespective of political link, alleging that the arrest was a plot to witch hunt him.
“He has always stood with his people at all times and has refused to align with any of the political tendencies in the area.”
Ojema said Agada’s travails were politically motivated as they were suspecting a faction of the Benue All Progressives Congress, APC.
Joseph Udo, another constituent, took to his Facebook page to condemn the arrest of the lawmaker which he alleged was politically motivated.
He said, “There is a difference between a big lie and small lie but on this one this guy is clean.
“Stop the blackmailing, politics is deep; Hon. Samuel Agada Awuchi is a responsible person.”
The Benue Police Command Spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed Agada’s arrest. She stressed that the Lawmaker was arrested for assaulting some Police Officers.
Ogbadibo’s Constitents have, however, not rested on their oars as they promised to go ahead with the peaceful protest until Agada is released.
