Ebonyi South Zonal Leader of MASSOB, Mr. John Nwifuru told newsmen in Abakaliki yesterday, that the movement would not be dissuaded or cowed by various federal might which he said were all aimed at intimidating them to abandon the struggle. He warned there could be reprisal on the side of MASSOB if the Federal Government did not stop further attack and intimidation of their leader, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike and members of MASSOB.
But Arase explained that there is an operational order that empowers the police to arrest anybody fomenting any act of violence or disorder, or any act inimical to the security of the nation. He said: “So far the following arrest have been made; Anambra State – four ; Imo – six ; Delta – 11 and Abia – one.”
The IGP further warned that persons so arrested for inciting violence, irrespective of their class or status in the society would be charged to court accordingly.
Meanwhile, scores of tmembers of the movement, yesterday staged a protest in Warri, demanding for the unconditional release of their leader, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike and over 20 members of the body arrested Sunday in Owerri Imo State by security operatives.
The embittered members who marched through some streets in warri metropolis, pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari to wade into the matter before it gets out of hand.
The protesters who carried placards with several inscriptions “Release our leader (Uwazuruike) and 20 other members arrested along with him”, We are a non-violent group, rather, we are fighting for our right peacefully”, “We detest oppression”, Buhari should intervene in the matter to save an imminent unpleasant situation”.
Addressing newsmen later, leader of the protesters, Joseph Odikpo, condemned the arrest of their members and alleged that they have been taken to an unknown destination.
Meanwhile, an Asaba Magistrate Court, Delta State yesterday, remanded 11 suspected members of the movement in prison custody till October 23.
The accused persons were arraigned on a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, taking arms against government, treasonable felony, unlawful society and publishing rumor to cause false alarm.
Their plea was not taken when the charges were read before the case was adjourned to October 23.
The court directed that the case file should be sent to the state Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for advice.
Spokesperson of Delta State Police Command, DSP Celestina Kalu said the 11 accused persons were the ring leaders of the unlawful group, adding that other suspects including women and children were cautioned and released.
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