PDP Condemns Arrest of Former Plateau Speaker
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State has expressed deep concern over the recent arrest of Gabriel Dewan, the former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, describing the move as a calculated attempt to destabilize the state’s democratic institutions.
Dewan, a member of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), emerged as Speaker in 2023 following a Court of Appeal ruling that sacked 16 PDP lawmakers and drastically altered the Assembly’s composition.
His ascension to the speakership came amid a complex political realignment, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) gaining majority control of the House.
Since then, Dewan’s continued tenure has been met with opposition from the APC, which holds 22 of the 24 seats and has repeatedly pushed for his removal, arguing that the Speaker must reflect the majority party.
However, Dewan retained his position, supported by a legal mandate and the backing of minority lawmakers, including PDP members who have since challenged the APC’s aggressive stance.
Reacting to Dewan’s arrest, Plateau State PDP Secretary, Hon. Emma Tuang, in a statement on Wednesday, condemned the action, describing it as “an act of political harassment” and “an attempt to intimidate opposition voices.”
He accused the state government and its allies of using security apparatuses to suppress dissent, warning that such actions could provoke further unrest in an already fragile political environment.
“This arrest is not only unwarranted but also a deliberate attempt to undermine democratic governance in Plateau. The PDP views this as part of a larger plot to impose a one-party dictatorship in the state under the guise of law enforcement,” Tuang said.
While details surrounding the reason for Dewan’s arrest remain unclear, PDP officials insist it was politically motivated, especially in light of recent tensions within the state Assembly.
The party called on civil society groups, the judiciary, and the international community to monitor the situation closely and hold the state accountable for actions that could erode the rule of law.
In contrast, APC officials have maintained that the arrest has no political undertones, insisting it was conducted lawfully and within the bounds of due process. However, they have not publicly disclosed the charges against Dewan.
Political analysts warn that the ongoing battle for control of the Plateau State Assembly could lead to a constitutional crisis if not carefully managed. The PDP has urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang to rise above partisan politics and foster unity in the interest of peace and development.
As the political drama unfolds, calls for transparency, dialogue, and respect for judicial processes are growing louder. The fate of the former Speaker may now serve as a litmus test for democratic tolerance and institutional independence in Plateau State.
