By Joseph Ebi Kanjo, Benin
Civil Society Community in Edo State, on Monday in Benin protested the continued detention of two human rights activists, Kola Edokpayi and Hadson Oracle.
The CSO groups who protested under the coalition, Civil Society Community in Edo State, caused gridlock at the city centre; Oba Ovonramwen Square and adjoining roads in the city
Edokpayi and Oracle
were reportedly arrested by men of the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged plan to organise a pro-Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso’s protest.
Ibrahim Traore is the military president of Burkina Faso.
The planned protest was, however, called off after their meeting with the Commissioner of Police.
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Despite the cancellation of the planned protest and meeting with the CP, the duo were still picked up by the DSS on April 30th.
The CSO groups said they met with the leadership of the DSS who promised to release them on Friday but failed to meet up with their (DSS) earlier promise.
The civil society community lamented that to worsen the situation, the rights activists have been denied access to their lawyers, family members and associates, adding that this denial has fuelled speculation that they may have been moved to Abuja.
A statement signed by the Spokesperson and Legal Adviser of the group, Rev. David Ugolor and Abraham Oviawe, the CSO groups expressed disappointment that the DSS did not meet its promise of releasing their comrades.
“This has given rise to growing concerns within our community, especially as it appears that the continued detention may exceed the period permissible under the law.
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“We also wish to revisit the understanding reached at the meeting regarding the reasons for the arrest, which we had understood to have been amicably addressed by the Edo State Commissioner of Police.
“We remain concerned about the implications of this development on the longstanding and collaborative relationship between the Civil Society community in Edo State and your esteemed office- a relationship that has been built over the years on mutual respect and open dialogue.
“In light of this,we respectfully request an update on the current status of Mr.Edokpayi and Mr.Oracle,including confirmation of any transfer,as is being speculated in some quarters. We would also appreciate clarity on any plans concerning their possible release.
“Additionally,we humbly urge your office to facilitate access to legal representation and family visits for the detained individuals,in accordance with their constitutional rights and our shared commitment to justice and fairness.
“Please be assured that our preference for diplomacy and engagements rooted in our desire to maintain peace and partnership.”
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