A prominent voice in the Akwa Ibom State political landscape, Barr. Ewa Okpo has broken his silence after being released from detention, issuing a defiant and reflective statement on justice, accountability, and the rights of the people.
In a strongly worded message titled “I HAVE RETURNED!!”, the lawyer and publicity secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the State, who goes by the moniker of “street lawyer”, described his experience as a journey meant to instil fear but one that has ultimately strengthened his resolve.
“I have returned from a place where men are sent so that others may learn to be afraid,” he stated.
He expressed profound gratitude to all those who stood in solidarity with him — those who prayed, spoke his name, contacted his family and lawyers, and refused to accept silence as justice.
The statement highlighted the power of collective support, noting that the strength of a people lies not in the power of those who govern them, but in the courage of those who refuse to be intimidated.
He criticised what he described as hurried detention and court processes, saying the accusation was made before evidence was properly examined — a pattern he called “the anxiety of power” rather than the confidence of justice.
Despite the ordeal, he declared he did not leave the place defeated. He spoke of meeting other detainees who have waited years for justice and vowed that their stories would remain with him.
“My voice will not grow quieter because it was challenged. It will grow louder because I have seen what silence costs,” he asserted.
The released detainee emphasised that citizens have a duty to ask questions about public resources, governance, and unfulfilled promises. He warned that people who stop asking questions do not become peaceful — they become powerless.
He ended on a note of unwavering commitment:
“The work continues. The questions remain. The duty remains. And so does my voice. For liberty. For accountability. For the people of Akwa Ibom. Unbent. Unbroken. Unfinished.”
The statement has begun circulating widely on social media, drawing mixed reactions. While many have praised his courage and resilience, others are watching closely to see how authorities respond to his renewed call for transparency and justice.
It can be recalled that Barr. Okpo was arrested by the Akwa Ibom State police command after Senator Effiong Bob had petitioned the Police Commissioner for alleged cyberskalking and defamation.
This latest development adds to ongoing conversations about human rights, judicial processes, and freedom of expression in Akwa Ibom State.
