TD ABUJA, FCT — Former Kano State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) vice presidential candidate, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has condemned the reported attack on the movement of NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi in Benue State.
Dr. Kwankwaso described the incident as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
Kwankwaso, in a statement, said he was “deeply disturbed” by the reported attack on Obi’s convoy.
The incident happened as the former Anambra State governor travelled to Benue to visit communities affected by recent violence.
Kwankwaso Condemns Alleged Attack on Obi’s Convoy
According to Kwankwaso, the alleged mobilisation of youths to block and attack Obi’s convoy and prevent him from entering Makurdi represented “another dark day for our democracy.”
He said the incident should not be treated as a routine political disagreement.
He argued that citizens must be able to move freely within the country without obstruction.
“The deliberate mobilisation of unruly elements to block and attack his convoy and prevent him from entering Makurdi marks another dark day for our democracy,” Kwankwaso said.
Benue Government Urged to Act
Kwankwaso called on the Benue State Government to urgently investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is identified and prosecuted.
He also urged the state authorities to guarantee the safety and freedom of movement of Obi and members of his entourage.
“The Benue State Government must, as a matter of urgency, ensure that those responsible are swiftly identified and prosecuted.
“It must also guarantee the safety and free movement of our candidate and his entourage,” he said.
Cites Constitutional Right to Freedom of Movement
The former Kano governor stressed that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to freedom of movement.
He argued that the constitutional protection should apply to every Nigerian, including political figures and opposition leaders.
“Authorities must remember that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of movement.
“This right applies even more strongly to Mr Obi, a former governor and leading opposition figure,” Kwankwaso stated.
Kwankwaso Calls on Tinubu to Caution APC Governors
Kwankwaso also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to caution state governors, particularly those belonging to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), against actions that could undermine democratic principles.
“I further urge the President to caution state governors, particularly those in his party, against any actions that could undermine the sanctity of our democracy,” he said.
Kwankwaso Asks International Community to Take Note
The former governor further called on the international community to pay attention to the incident.
He asked the international community to monitor developments surrounding political freedoms and opposition activities in Nigeria.
He specifically appealed to diplomatic missions and election observation organisations to take note of what happened.
Kwankwaso further encouraged Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law.
“I also call on the international community, including diplomatic missions and election observation groups, to take note of this incident and to urge Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect opposition leaders, and safeguard democratic freedoms,” he said.
Incident Raises Fresh Concerns Over Political Freedom
The statement comes after Peter Obi alleged that his convoy was blocked near the Makurdi Airport while he was attempting to proceed into Benue State to condole communities affected by deadly attacks.
Obi alleged that youths had been mobilised to prevent him from accessing the area and said the development was unacceptable in a democratic society.
The claims concerning the alleged attack, the identity and political affiliation of those involved, and the alleged role of any government officials have been established.
The Benue State Government and other parties implicated in the allegations, however, have yet respond to the allegations.
The development has nevertheless triggered fresh debate over political tolerance, freedom of movement and the protection of opposition figures ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
This Dawn News will continue to follow developments surrounding the incident and any response from the Benue State Government, security agencies and other relevant authorities.
