A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Barr. Festus Daumiebi, has called for the immediate and unconditional release of some Bayelsans recently arrested under the current administration of Governor Douye Diri-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the state.
Recall that two Bayelsa bloggers are currently in police custody over alleged criticism of the government’s policies and programmes on social media platforms.
While Ebikpoemi Bobby Ugo, APC state media coordinator, was arrested for allegedly openly criticizing and condemning some policies of the government. The other, Esule Isaac, a member of PDP, was reportedly arrested for posting a video interview of a Bayelsan who accused the IDP handlers at the Ox-bow lake camp of maltreating and flogging them with canes.
Barr. Daumiebi, in a statement sent to newsmen on Monday, stated that those who offer themselves to serve the public must develop thick skin and deaf ears.
The statement reads, “The level of political intolerance in Bayelsa State is becoming a great source of concern. This is a new disturbing trend that must be discouraged by all well-meaning Bayelsans.
“In my contest to the red Chambers as the APC candidate in the 2019 general elections, I was called unprintable names, both here on this blue app and in the electronic media, with fake, unsubstantiated, vague and very untrue allegations, but I laughed over them all.
“Most of those guys who did that to me at that point in time are my friends today. I would have as well arrested, detained or even charged them to court, but I opted for the part of tolerance.
“No public office holder in Bayelsa State in our history has been criticised as much as Chief DSP Alamieseigha of blessed memories was done, yet he never arrested or detained anyone on mere criticism in the name of defamation.
“Bayelsa State is too small for us to practice this dangerous trend of political intolerance.
“I am appealing to any political leader or public office holder in Bayelsa State, irrespective of the political party decides that has arrested or detained anyone, be it your party faithful or opposition member to please, release such person for the sake of peace.
“We are Bayelsans before our political affiliations and we must learn to put Bayelsa first.
“Release Bubby Ugo, Release Esule Isaac; and indeed any other political prisoner, if any in Bayelsa State.
“Let us not overheat the polity. Bayelsa State is all we have.
“This call is devoid of political sentiments for record purposes.”
