The Kogi State Youth Development Association (KSYDA) has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of rights activist Tony, who it says was assaulted by thugs allegedly linked to the Ankpa Local Government Chairman before being taken into custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Lokoja.
In a statement issued Monday, KSYDA President, Comrade Apeh Kelvin said the activist’s only offense was exercising his right to peaceful protest.
“Tony had been a vocal advocate for the people of Ankpa, campaigning for the rehabilitation of deteriorating roads, improved public welfare, and an end to illegal mining activities in the Local Government Area.
“A reasonable government would know advocacy for good governance and environmental protection should be met with administrative engagement, not violence and incarceration,” Kelvin said.
Association Condemns “Grave Violation” of Democratic Rights
Kelvin described the reported abduction, physical assault, and detention of the activist — allegedly carried out on the orders of a public official — as a serious breach of democratic principles and an attempt to suppress dissent through intimidation.
“I strongly condemn these actions and join the collective call for Tony’s immediate and unconditional freedom,” he said, adding that the association stands with “every well-meaning youth in Kogi State” in demanding accountability.
Calls for Chairman’s Resignation
Beyond Tony’s release, Kelvin called on the Ankpa Local Government Chairman to step down, arguing that any public official who acts against the welfare of the people they serve forfeits the right to hold office.
“Any public official, against the welfare of his people, does not qualify to occupy any public office,” he said. “I demand the immediate resignation of the Ankpa Local Government Chairman to ensure accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights in Ankpa and Kogi State in general.”
Kelvin closed the statement with a pointed warning to authorities: “Enough is enough.”
As of press time, there has been no official response from the Ankpa Local Government Chairman’s office or the Kogi State CID regarding the allegations.
