The Social Democratic Party’s Governorship Candidate, Ondo State, Bamidele Akingboye, has condemned the arrest of some protesters in Akure, the State Capital, in the early hours of Saturday.
He called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to immediately and unconditionally release these citizens who were exercising their fundamental right to peaceful assembly.
According to reports, security forces, including the Army, Civil Defence, Police, and Amotekun, allegedly acting on the directive of Governor Aiyedatiwa, apprehended protesters in the Alagbaka area of Akure South.
The demonstrators were subsequently taken to an undisclosed location.
Akingboye emphasized that peaceful protest is a cornerstone of democracy and a fundamental human right guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution.
He questioned the governor’s apparent fear of public demonstration and reminded the state government of its obligation to protect citizens’ rights, not suppress them.
The SDP candidate stated that he joined the voices of concerned Ondo State youths in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all arrested protesters.
He advised Governor Aiyedatiwa to respect the democratic process and engage in dialogue with citizens rather than resorting to intimidation tactics.
Akingboye reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rights of all Ondo State residents and pledged to foster an environment of open communication and respect for civil liberties if elected governor