The Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) has strongly condemned the arrest of comedian Ajirioghene Otagba, popularly known as MC 2Kingdom, over his criticism of an abandoned electricity project in Delta State.
Otagba was reportedly arrested at the request of Chief Matthew Edevbie, the contractor handling the 132 KVA substation electricity project in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area. The project, which was meant to improve power supply in Isoko, has been abandoned for 14 years. The comedian had made a video calling for its completion, a move that allegedly led to his detention.
Youths Condemn Arrest, Demand Immediate Release
In a statement released on Saturday, INYA President Comrade Eniwake Orogun warned that there would be serious consequences if Otagba was not released unconditionally.
“We have watched the video and found no reason for this arrest. Instead of punishing him, Chief Edevbie should be grateful that someone is bringing attention to the project’s delay. This aligns with the federal government’s whistle-blowing policy,” Orogun said.
The youths also criticized the manner of Otagba’s arrest, pointing out that while his alleged “offense” happened in Ozoro, he was taken into custody in Lagos and prepared for transfer to Abuja. They described this as “pure intimidation” and an attempt to silence legitimate calls for accountability.
Calls for Government Intervention
The youth group has called on Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to step in and secure Otagba’s release before the situation escalates.
They also appealed to Olorogun David Edevbie, a former governorship aspirant and brother to the contractor, to intervene and prevent further damage to his family’s reputation.
“If Mr. Otagba is not charged to court within the legally allowed time, we will resist this oppression in ways never seen before in Delta State,” the statement warned.
The controversy has sparked widespread anger among Isoko youths, who argue that public projects should be completed rather than abandoned, and that citizens have the right to demand accountability.
Rising Tension in Isoko
The arrest has increased tensions in the region, with residents expressing frustration over the lack of electricity despite the millions spent on the project. Many fear that if the issue is not resolved quickly, protests and unrest may follow.
“We are watching closely, and we will not allow this matter to be swept under the rug. The government must act now to prevent chaos,” the INYA statement concluded.
As of now, neither the Delta State Government nor Chief Matthew Edevbie has publicly responded to the youths’ demands.
