By Yahaya Idris
The Kogi State Coordinator of the Asiwaju/Shettima Mandate Group, Hajiya Rekiya Tijani, has called for the unconditional release of Tony Tony, a young community advocate reportedly detained after speaking out on development challenges in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Tijani, who is also the woman leader of the Prince Michael Ojotule Support Group, made the call on Sunday in Lokoja, while appealing to relevant authorities to secure the immediate freedom of the detained youth.
According to her, Tony Tony’s advocacy for improved infrastructure and development in Ankpa should not be treated as a criminal act.
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She described the young man as a community-focused individual who, according to her, has not been involved in criminal activities.
“Tony Tony is not a thief, not a ritualist and not a kidnapper. He does not indulge in bad activities,” Tijani said.
She argued that the young community advocate merely raised concerns over what she described as the lack of adequate infrastructure and development in Ankpa Local Government Area.
Tijani: Youths Must Not Remain Silent
Tijani expressed concern over Tony Tony’s continued detention, saying he was arrested on August 8, 2026, and had remained in custody at Koton-Karfe Prison.
She appealed to the authorities to consider the circumstances surrounding his arrest and ensure that his fundamental rights are respected.
According to her, young people should be encouraged to speak about issues affecting their communities rather than being intimidated into silence.
“Free Tony Tony. Youths must not be quiet any longer,” she appealed.
The Kogi female political stakeholder maintained that advocacy for community development should be encouraged, particularly when young people raise legitimate concerns about infrastructure, investment and the welfare of residents.
Call for Justice and Due Process
Tijani’s intervention has added to calls for authorities to address the circumstances surrounding Tony Tony’s detention and ensure that due process is followed.
She urged relevant authorities to review the case and consider the immediate release of the young advocate if there is no lawful basis for his continued detention.
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The call comes amid growing attention to youth participation in community development and governance, with advocates increasingly using traditional and digital platforms to draw attention to local challenges.
Tijani reiterated her position that Tony Tony should be released unconditionally, insisting that youths should have the freedom to speak about development challenges affecting their communities.