Ise-Ekiti, Ekiti State – June 21, 2025
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Wole Akindele, has condemned the arrest of PDP youth activist, Freedom Siasia, describing it as a politically motivated move allegedly orchestrated by collaborators of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a strongly worded statement on Friday, Akindele accused certain disloyal elements within the PDP of working hand-in-hand with the APC to destabilize the party ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“The arrest of Freedom Siasia under the guise of a threat-to-life allegation is a clear abuse of power. His real offense is his boldness to speak against the rot and betrayals affecting our party,” Akindele said.
He claimed that the internal crisis plaguing the PDP, including the prolonged delay of its state congress, is the result of sabotage from within by those aligned with APC interests.
“What should be a democratic process has now turned into intimidation and oppression. Aspiring for leadership in our party has become a crime. This is not democracy; it’s tyranny wearing a party badge,” Akindele said.
He warned that the growing trend of arresting PDP members who speak out would not break the resolve of the party faithful. “The aim is clear — to weaken the PDP so the APC can coast into 2026 without real opposition. But Ekiti people are watching, and PDP members will not be silenced,” he added.
Akindele rallied party youths to remain steadfast and resist intimidation, insisting that the truth will prevail in the end. He reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to its democratic roots and vowed that those betraying the party would be exposed.
“The PDP is not for political mercenaries. We will not retreat or be defeated,” he declared.
The statement follows growing concerns among opposition supporters in Ekiti about the shrinking space for dissent and fair political competition as the 2026 elections draw closer.
