Group Demands Immediate Release of MC 2Kingdom Over NDDC Project Criticism
A group under the umbrella of Isoko Comrades Community Worldwide (ICC-Worldwide) has called for the immediate release of Delta-based comedian Ajirioghene Otagba, popularly known as MC 2Kingdom, who was arrested after questioning the abandonment of an electricity project.
Otagba was arrested on Friday, allegedly on the orders of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) contractor Matthew Edevbie, following a Facebook video in which he highlighted the 132 KVA substation electricity project in Ozoro, Delta State, abandoned for over a decade.
The Isoko Comrades Community Worldwide condemned the arrest as “illegal” and threatened mass protests if Otagba is not released within 48 hours.
In a statement signed by ICC-Worldwide President Comr. Enifome Ogbemudia and General Secretary Comr. Enahoro Odu, the group said, “We strongly condemn the illegal arrest of Comedian Ajirioghene Otagba, popularly known as MC 2Kingdom, by Chief Matthew Edevbie, the contractor handling the abandoned 132 KVA Substation Electricity Project at Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State. Abandoned for 14yrs now.
“Otagba’s arrest is a clear case of intimidation, aimed at silencing his criticism of the abandoned project. We view this as an affront to freedom of speech and a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
“We demand that Chief Matthew Edevbie and the authorities immediately and unconditionally release Otagba. Failure to do so will be met with strong resistance, including mass protests and demonstrations.
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“We call on the Delta state governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the LGA chairman, Hon. Eldr. Godwin Ogorugba, (Chief host to project site), Isoko Development Union (IDU), Worldwide President, Prof. Chris Akpotu, House of Reps member, Ajirioghene Ukodhiko and Senator Joel Onowakpo to intervene promptly and ensure that justice is served.
“We also call on Olorogun David Edevbie, a former Governorship aspirant and brother to Chief Matthew Edevbie, to prevail on his brother to release Comrade Otagba Ajirioghene unconditionally.
“The ICC stands in solidarity with Otagba and commends him for his bravery in speaking out against the abandoned project. We will not stand idly while our members are intimidated and harassed for exercising their constitutional rights. We urge all well-meaning individuals and organizations to join us in condemning this illegal arrest and demanding Otagba’s immediate release.”
The comedian was initially detained by the IG Monitoring Unit in Lagos but has now been transferred to the Maitama Area Command in Abuja.
Meanwhile, Isoko-born lawyer Anthony Ejumejowo has offered to represent Otagba “pro bono.”
“We will visit him on Sunday and by Monday morning commence the process for his legal representation at the Force Headquarters where the IG Monitoring Unit is domiciled,” Ejumejowo stated.
The Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) has also condemned the arrest and warned of “dire consequences” if he is not released immediately.
In 2020, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured a final forfeiture of N827.6 million from Matthew Edevbie, linked to NDDC contracts, following a court order.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
