The Police Special Intelligence Bureau, SIB in Delta State on Wednesday invited and interrogated a human rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe over his role in the #ENDSARS protests in the state.
Comrade Joe was at the Police Command in Asaba with members of the human rights community at about 1pm for questioning.
He(Joe) was later released following interventions by the Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and others.
When contacted, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa said, “He is just invited him on a friendly basis to discuss some vital issues, pls.”
In a chat with Our Correspondent, Comrade Israel Joe confirmed his release.
“I have just been released from the Delta State Police Command Special Intelligence Bureau’s (Unit), where I was invited for questioning, slated for today 25th November, 2020.”
Comrade Joe said he was interrogated on issues that bothered on the #ENDSARS protests.
In his words, “The file which contained my vital information, bank details and other necessary data about me was opened by the OC SIB and I was interrogated on issues that bother on the #EndSARS involvement with a view to carry the police along in our plans according to them.
“We had told them that the federal government has not met our 5/5 demands though they have disbanded SARS.
“We also articulated our fresh demand to the police. Which entails zoning of every position of Vice, Deputies and assistants to youths (20-45 years) in 2023 political arrangements of all political parties.
“I was also questioned about the 7th December #EndSARS protest which excluded Delta state. We had intentionally excluded Delta State from the protest not because our demands have been met but because we do not want to record any casualties occasioned by secret cult clashes, taking advantage of the #EndSARS protest.”
Comrade Joe noted that there have been recent clashes between rival cult groups in the state especially in Warri, Ughelli, Asaba, some part of Sapele and Udu which has claimed some lives.
He said, “We will not allow those thriving on evils hijack the protest to unleash mayhem on themselves and innocent peaceful protesting youths while they hang it on the #EndSARS.
“We are also evaluating the government and the police who claimed they have done reform yet people still mobilise police for arrest, pay for bail, files and bail-bond.
“Until these issues are addressed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), until the government tackles unemployment and build viable infrastructure, we won’t back down.
“Even if Delta State wouldn’t get involved in the protest of 7th December, our agitations continue. I also want to use the medium to call on the halt to every cult clash. Killing your fellow youths does not make you a champion, it only makes you a willing victim of disturbing conscience.”
Comrade Joe commended the Delta State Governor, Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa and the Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa for their quick interventions in the matter.
According to him, CP Inuwa acknowledged him on self-recognition.
Comrade Joe also thanked the Delta State Commissioner for Youths as well as members of the human rights community who accompanied me to the SIB unit and for shaking the social media space. I also appreciate everyone who called and sent their concerns, all too numerous to mention.”
