POLITICAL PERSECUTION AND VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS:. CSCDD ADDRESSES OGHA

OGUN:  CSCDD ADDRESSES LAWMAKERS ON POLITICAL PERSECUTION AND VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

By Oluwatoyin Mathnuel 

The Civil Society Coalition in Defence of Democracy (CSCDD) deemed it necessary to hold a press conference on September 28, 2023, urging the Ogun State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, to call Governor Dapo Abiodun to order. This call came in response to Governor Abiodun's infringement upon the rights of the immediate past chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Mr. Wale Adedayo, as well as the ongoing political persecution against Sen. Gbenga Daniel.

The press release, signed by Comrade Shina Loremikan, states: "We, the Civil Society Coalition in Defence of Democracy (CSCDD), find it crucial to address the press regarding the concerns raised in our petition. We strongly urge the Ogun State House of Assembly to act promptly in safeguarding democracy amidst the ongoing political persecution of individuals, regardless of disagreements. This also includes the continuous harassment of Mr. Wale Adedayo, who is currently detained. His impeachment as LG chairman was orchestrated by Prince Dapo Abiodun.

CSCDD is particularly concerned that OGHA seems to have abdicated its roles in the administration of local government in line with the relevant provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. OGHA has not investigated the allegations made by Mr. Wale Adedayo regarding the diversion of public funds to ascertain the veracity of his claims, as expected in a democratic setting.

Therefore, CSCDD deems the harassment and persecution of Wale Adedayo by Gov. Dapo Abiodun as a flagrant abuse of power that should not be tolerated. 

 We unequivocally condemn any form of politically motivated persecution and executive lawlessness, as is currently the case in Ogun State. 

 CSCDD seeks OGHA's urgent intervention to address the drift in the interest of democracy and peace in the Gateway state. This can be achieved by calling Gov. Abiodun to order, thereby putting an end to the spate of political persecution and intimidation in Ogun state.  

Additionally, we call for a public inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the destruction of Datkem plaza, aiming to establish the truth and ensure justice. Moreover, an end to the continued harassment of Mr. Wale Adedayo by security agencies is urged.

 The case of political persecution against him should be investigated, with public feedback provided on the findings."