The Niger Delta Blind Students Association has condemned the arrest of the president of Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Alhaji Shetima Yerima.

ln a statement signed by Mr. Ben Omiebi, president of the group, the students demanded the immediate release of the youth leader and a public apology by the government for allegedly “deceiving Nigerians with rule of law slogan only to use military mentality to silence progressive elements working hard to save the nation.

“We are sad that the government is now tormenting visionary and detribalised leaders who are ready to guide the administration to the path of progress.

“Those who advised government to carry out this operation have only exposed the government to more ridicule. Shetima has been a pillar to save the poor, particularly the disabled all over the country, so are we ready to fight his battle at anytime.”

The group recalled the role the Arewa youth leader played to assist blind students of the Niger Delta, especially his presence at their exhibition in Lagos which endeared him to physically challenged persons from the region.

“We call on the government to immediately order the release of Shetima because the likes of Shetima are the true progressives and upright youths the nation needs to move forward,” the group said.