The Clampdown Of Opposition Social Media Influencers Is A Misplaced Priority Of The Gov. Diri’s Administration

The Clampdown On Social Media Advocates, Members Of The Opposition By The Bayelsa State Government Is A Misplaced Priority

By Senior Comrade Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli

For years, many pundits have vehemently opposed the establishment of State Police. The above advocacy is premised on the argument that State Governors will misuse the arsenals and instrumentalities of the security apparatus at their disposal to deal ruthlessly with members of the opposition and their perceived enemies.

Gov. Douye Diri has enjoyed massive support and solidarity from members of the opposition because of the relative peace and cordiality that has existed between all political parties in the state. However, recent events are beginning to prove otherwise.

Some schools of thought, political observers and watchers hold that Gov. Douye Diri was only pretending to be suing and promoting peace, while trying to find his footing and also have a strong hold on power before striking his perceived enemies and opponents. And present realities seems to point to this fact, otherwise how do we explain the ongoing harassment and clampdown on members of the APC Social Media Team?

Opposition and Criticism especially divergent views and ideological differences are some of the key ingredients of Democracy. Members of PDP in Bayelsa State are some of the outstanding Nigerians who have been very critical about the APC led Federal Government, but the FG with her might and glory have never clampdown on those who hold opposing views.

It is therefore sad and sickening for Gov. Douye Diri to use the Police in Bayelsa State to hunt down APC members. He should realize that he is sending a very dangerous signal whose outcome and resultant effects may be very counter productive considering the fact that power is Transient.

Gov. Douye Diri should also know that his action is not only condemnable but shall be resisted not only by members of the opposition but by all progressive minded Bayelsans because Bayelsa State is not a Banana Republic. Bayelsa State is not the private estate of anyone that attempts to use public power that is entrusted to him to oppress, repress, suppress and subjugate the citizens he swore on Oath to serve and also protect. The Governor does not have right to deprive others of their fundamental rights especially their freedom of expression.

Finally, I join other men and women of goodwill to demand for the immediate release of Comrade Ebikpoemi Bobby Ugo who was arrested yesterday and is been detained by the Nigeria Police Force Bayelsa State Command and also jettison and discountenance the invitation that has been extended to Comrade PreyeBagou, Gborienemi Mark-charles and others.