The Bayelsa State Caretaker Committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the arrest and detention of Ms. Awudumu Reigneth, who serves as Director of New Media for the Pro-Wike political group, New Associates.
According to the party, Ms. Reigneth’s arrest is politically motivated and linked to her role in a recent rally held in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid.
The PDP pointed fingers at Governor Douye Diri, accusing him of orchestrating the arrest due to her affiliation with the Pro-Wike movement.
Derri Alasuote Wright, the committee’s Publicity Secretary, said in a statement that Reigneth is being unlawfully detained over what he described as false accusations, including cyberbullying—allegedly aimed at silencing her for expressing her views.
Wright warned against growing intolerance for dissent in the state and urged Governor Diri to adopt a more democratic approach, referencing the examples of President Tinubu and former President Goodluck Jonathan, both of whom, he said, faced public criticism but remained tolerant.
“This is a democracy, not a monarchy,” Wright said. “Governor Diri is accountable to the people, not their ruler. Leaders like President Tinubu and ex-President Jonathan have endured years of public scrutiny and online criticism without resorting to oppression.”
The PDP further alleged that people from certain parts of the state, particularly Ogbia and Bayelsa East, are being unfairly targeted.
Wright referenced the previous arrest of commentator John Idumage from Nembe and the dismissal of 27 Ogbia indigenes from government appointments as evidence of selective persecution.
Calling for public support, Wright urged residents, civil society groups, and activists to join the demand for Reigneth’s immediate and unconditional release.
He reiterated the party’s rejection of what it sees as intimidation tactics aimed at silencing opposition voices.
“Under the leadership of our Acting Chairman, Mr. George Turnah, we strongly oppose any form of repression,” Wright emphasized. “The ongoing harassment of our members will not be tolerated.”
He also warned that if Governor Diri fails to act swiftly, the party may be forced to consider disciplinary actions, including expelling him from the PDP.
The statement concluded with an appeal for collective resistance to any effort that undermines democratic rights, emphasizing the need to protect freedom of speech and uphold the rule of law in Bayelsa and beyond.
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