COPDEM condemns brutal attack on Okhani, labels it assault on democracy

DDM News

The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has issued a strong condemnation following the reported brutalization of Edo North-based activist, Chief Comrade Okhani JP, at a Town Hall meeting held in Auchi, Edo State.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the incident occurred on Monday during a civic engagement programme organized to foster accountability between lawmakers and the people.

Chief Okhani, a well-known advocate for transparency and good governance in Afemai land, had convened the Town Hall as a platform for elected representatives to brief their constituents.

According to eyewitnesses, the programme had barely begun at the Auchi Council Hall when operatives of the Edo State Government-backed security outfit, identified as the Edo Security Network, arrived at the venue and began shooting sporadically into the air to disperse the crowd.

In the confusion that followed, the operatives reportedly singled out Chief Okhani, who was brutally beaten and left with multiple injuries.

He is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

COPDEM, through its National Media Directorate, released a statement on Wednesday describing the attack as “barbaric, undemocratic, and an insult to the principles of constitutional engagement.”

The coalition further noted that the assault on Okhani was a direct result of his persistent calls for accountability from elected officials, particularly the Senator representing Edo North.

“This is not just an attack on Comrade Okhani; it is an attack on our collective democratic right to ask questions and demand transparency from those in power,” the statement read.

COPDEM also warned that silencing voices of dissent through intimidation and violence is reminiscent of dictatorial regimes, not the democratic values Nigerians have fought hard to uphold.

The group called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the attack, identify the perpetrators, and ensure that justice is served.

It also urged civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and all lovers of democracy to speak out against what it called a dangerous precedent.

“Edo cannot become a state where free speech is punished and town hall meetings are turned into war zones. We call for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible,” COPDEM stated.

As of press time, the Edo State Government has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.

The attack on Okhani has since sparked outrage on social media, with many Edo North indigenes calling for accountability and pledging support for the embattled activist.

This incident comes at a time when citizens across Nigeria are increasingly demanding openness and performance from their representatives, with civil society actors playing a pivotal role in deepening democratic participation.

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