By SpringNewsNG Media Limited | May 5, 2025

Edo State’s civil society coalition has called for the immediate release of two activists—Marxist Kola Edokpayi and Comrade Hadson Oracle—who were arrested by Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) over their involvement in a solidarity rally for Burkina Faso’s interim leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

In a press statement dated May 3 and addressed to the Edo State Director of the DSS, the group expressed deep concern over the activists’ continued detention, which they described as unlawful and contrary to prior assurances of their release.

“Kindly recall the meeting held on May 1, 2025, between your good office and representatives of the civil society community,” the statement read. “During our discussion, we addressed the detention of Mr. Edokpayi and Mr. Oracle since April 30. You graciously assured us of their unconditional release on or before Friday, May 2, 2025. However, as of today, we have received no confirmation of their release.”

The duo were reportedly arrested for organizing a public rally in support of Captain Traoré, whose anti-imperialist policies have gained popularity among Pan-Africanist and leftist groups across the continent. The rally was part of a broader movement held simultaneously in countries such as Ghana and South Africa.

The statement, signed by Rev. David Ugolor, spokesperson for the coalition, and Barr. Abraham Oviawe, the group’s legal adviser, raised fears that the activists may have been transferred to an undisclosed location. It also stressed that the continued detention could jeopardize the historically cooperative relationship between civil society and security agencies in the state.

“We respectfully request an update on the current status of Mr. Edokpayi and Mr. Oracle, including confirmation of any transfer… We would also appreciate clarity on any plans concerning their possible release,” the group urged.

Emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional rights, the coalition demanded that the detainees be granted access to legal counsel and their families.

“Please be assured that our preference for diplomacy and engagement is rooted in our desire to maintain peace and partnership. It should not be mistaken for complacency,” the statement warned.

Earlier reporting by SaharaReporters revealed that Edokpayi had complied with police orders to cancel the rally, yet was still arrested. A source close to him disclosed that after a meeting with the Commissioner of Police, Edokpayi called off the event and sent out messages to halt mobilization. Despite this, DSS and police operatives raided his office, arresting six individuals—four of whom were later released, while Edokpayi and Oracle remained in custody.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups and Pan-African movements across Africa, who labeled the arrests a clear act of political repression and a breach of fundamental human rights.