By Perez Brisibe & Tare Youdeowei

PATANI—THE Ijaw Women Connect, IWC, worldwide, yesterday, added its voice to those of other Nigerians in condemning the manhandling of the former Director-General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, at the premises of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Ex-NIMASA DG, Patrick Akpobolokemi, being manhandled by security operatives

Similarly, Otunba Patrick Keku, United Nations, UN, Peace Advocate and Chairman, Ijaw National Congress, INC, has condemned the uncivil way the Police manhandled Akpobolokemi.

Also, Ijaw Youth Council, Lagos Chapter, has warned the EFCC, over what he termed the maltreatment of Akpobolokemi.
The women, in a statement by their spokesman, Rosie Aweke-Ere, accused the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration of plotting to destabilize and crumble the economic strength of the Ijaw people.

Promising to hold the EFCC and the Nigeria Police responsible for their alleged acts of lawlessness, abuse of citizens’ rights and outright victimization of one of their own, the women said that the conduct of the security operatives was reminiscent of the military era and was the height of impunity.

Meanwhile, Otunba Keku speaking with Vanguard, said: “Security agents should not be overzealous. I am not against investigation but against the uncivil manner Akpobolokemi was handled. It is barbaric. The Police should be more civil.”
On its part, Lagos IYC, in a statement by its Chairman, Mr Boma Johnbull, said: “We are keenly following the trial of Akpobolokemi and any action that negates due process and the principle of fair and transparent trial, harassment and intimidation, against him will be resisted.”

To President Muhammadu Buhari, he said, “Buhari is now the father of the nation not father of APC. This selective persecution, trial of only PDP members is uncalled for. He should be wary of the activities of his subordinates. He should strive for the stability of Nigeria and drop the spirit of vengeance. He should be open and bring the peoples of Nigeria together. The Ijaws should unite for peace.”

On its part, Lagos IYC in a statement by its Chairman, Mr Boma Johnbull, said, “We are keenly following the trial of Akpobolokemi and any action that negates due process and the principle of fair and transparent trial; harassment and intimidation, against him will be resisted.”