The Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Anambra State Chapter, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently direct the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and the Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) “to halt all leasing, demolition and construction activities on the disputed historic political party office located on Niger Street, Fegge-Onitsha, Anambra State.”

Following the purported leasing, the former Secretariat of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) situated along Niger Street Fegge-Onitsha, Anambra State, has been demolished and cleared in spite ownership of the property is subject of litigation.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the CLO Anambra State Chairman, Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme, the organisation expressed grave concern over the demolition of the building in spite an ongoing court case concerning the ownership. The structure is subject of litigation between Ogbo Family Umuasele Village Onitsha and National Inland Waterways Authority pending at Federal High Court, Awka in a suit no FHC/AWK/CS/2020.

According to CLO, the structure was originally built by former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, for SDP during the Third Republic, now alleged to have been leased to Golden Consult Nigeria Limited based in Asaba, Delta State, at the cost of N37,612,978.00.

"We are dismayed that in spite of a subsisting court case, one of the parties went ahead to demolish the edifice with the intent of erecting new structures," Comrade Ezekwueme stated. "This action is a blatant disregard for the rule of law and due process."

CLO Anambra therefore appealed to President Tinubu to intervene immediately and ensure that the status quo is maintained on the property until the matter is determined by the competent court of jurisdiction.

The organisation further urged all parties involved and residents of Fegge and Onitsha at large to remain peaceful and uphold law and order while the judicial process runs its course.

"Justice can only be served when the unaffected are as outraged as those affected," Comrade Ezekwueme emphasised. "Respect for democratic institutions and the rule of law must remain sacrosanct in our democracy."

CLO Anambra reiterated that this appeal has been made previously and is being reiterated with renewed urgency to prevent further breakdown of law and to preserve public trust in government institutions.