On Friday, police officers cordoned off Lion Field in Alimosho, the site previously approved for a political gathering by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), leading to an outcry from opposition groups in Lagos.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party's governorship candidate for 2023 in the state, alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is employing state institutions to suppress any dissenting voices.
Rhodes-Vivour expressed disappointment in a statement, criticizing the Lagos APC for misusing state institutions by sealing off the venue where the ADC had planned to hold a meeting tomorrow, despite having obtained all necessary approvals.
This is an abuse of power and a blatant effort to silence opposition voices in Lagos. While we acknowledge the APC's concerns about the growing support for the ADC and Obidients throughout the state, using state security agencies to hinder legal political activities is both unacceptable and undemocratic.
He referred to the action as an attack on democracy, emphasizing that Lagos does not belong to a single political group. "Lagos is for everyone, not just a privileged few. We have the constitutional right to assemble peacefully," he stated firmly. He further declared that no level of intimidation or harassment would deter their efforts to connect with the residents of Lagos: "Our movement draws strength from the people; no barrier or display of force can diminish their determination for a better Lagos."
In a video shared on X, Rhodes-Vivour appeared at the secured site and described the situation. "We are currently at Lion Field in Alimosho. Our event is scheduled for tomorrow, March 6th. However, we learned yesterday that the police have occupied both the field and venue," he stated.
"We're here to understand the situation because we trust that the police are our allies, dedicated to safeguarding us and ensuring our safety. We have no concerns about this gathering; in fact, we're going to speak with the commissioner of police regarding using this field. We've already submitted a letter for permission. Gathering is indeed our constitutional right—we aren't holding a rally or protest but simply wish to come together as an organization," he explained.
He believes that efforts to intimidate the opposition weaken Nigeria's democracy.
"That's why we enjoy freedom, why we're in Nigeria, and living in a democracy. That's also the reason we're not under military rule. So now, we'll be heading to see the commissioner, and with God's grace, we'll receive a positive response," he added.
A member of the event's planning committee also confirmed that they obtained the required notifications and approvals from the police before barricading the venue.
The ADC member stated, "We sent a notification letter to both the area command and the Gowon Estate Police Station here. It was noted in their records and forwarded to the commissioner of police about three days ago."
"When we arrived here this morning, we discovered that the area had been cordoned off by police officers. We were instructed to consult with the commissioner of police. As His Excellency mentioned, we're aware that the police are our allies and they’re present to ensure our safety," stated the committee member.
Post a Comment