The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has strongly condemned the state government's decision to mark for demolition the residence of House of Representatives member Marcus Onobun over alleged connections to cultism.
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, made this condemnation in a statement released to the media on Wednesday in Benin City.
According to Aziegbemi, properties belonging to Marcus Onobun, who represents Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, and Collins Aigbogun, described as "the illegally impeached elected chairman of Esan West Local Government Area," have been marked for demolition by the state government.
Political Victimization Claims
In the statement titled "Unwarranted demolition threat against Marcus Onobun and Hon Collins Aigbogun, a clear case of political victimization," Aziegbemi alleged that the marking of these properties in their respective hometowns represents "a desperate attempt to intimidate, silence and cripple the opposition in the state."
"The Anti-Cultism Law, as passed, clearly stipulates that property can only be subject to forfeiture or demolition after a valid conviction by a competent court of law," Aziegbemi stated. "At present, there is no such conviction against Hon Onobun and Hon Aigbogun but only baseless allegations. This is not law enforcement; it is a political witch-hunt."
The PDP caretaker committee chairman described the government's actions as "a disturbing abuse of power and a misuse of legislation to target political opponents."
Call for Immediate Action
The PDP has demanded an immediate halt to the planned demolitions and called on the state government to "retrace its steps and respect the legal rights and fundamental freedoms of Onobun, Aigbogun, and all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation."
Aziegbemi also issued a warning to law enforcement officers and equipment operators, stating that "policemen, bulldozer drivers, as well as owners of the bulldozers, will be held liable if, for any reason, they participate in the supervision, destruction, or demolition of any building or property without a valid court order."
"We wish to remind the Edo State Government that Nigeria is governed by law, not by executive fiat. The weaponisation of laws to stifle opposition voices and intimidate perceived political rivals is not only a threat to democracy in Edo State but a dangerous precedent for the rest of the country," he added.
The PDP called on Senator Okpebholo and the Edo State Government to "cease this intolerance for dissenting voices and vindictive demolition in various guises" and instead focus on "delivering transparent, inclusive, and effective governance that truly serves the interests of the Edo people."
The statement also urged civil society organizations and the international community to speak out against what they described as an injustice.
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