Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has condemned the alleged obstruction of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi’s convoy in Benue, saying it is unacceptable.
This is contained in a statement issued by Anthony Ehilebo, Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication to the APM presidential candidate, Mr. Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The newsmen report that Obi’s convoy had, on Tuesday, been prevented from proceeding in Benue after protesters barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi, the state capital.
Newsmen also report that the protesters, who were chanting “We don’t want Peter Obi”, block the road near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport for hours, disrupting traffic, as Obi’s convoy was held back.
Ehilebo, in the statement, said the confrontation marked a disturbing escalation in tactics used to stifle political rivals.
He said that the blockade was directly challenging Sections 41(1) and 40 of the 1999 Constitution.
According to him, citizens and political figures have the right to freedom of movement and assembly in any part of the country without needing prior permission from state authorities.
“Let us make it clear, every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice,” Ehilebo stated.
He called on the Nigerian Police Force to launch an immediate and full-scale investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We demand that the Nigerian Police immediately commence a full-scale investigation into this unfortunate incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of our democracy.
“As a campaign, we remain committed to a peaceful electoral process. However, we state clearly that we shall not be deterred or cowed by the antics of those who seek to make peaceful participation impossible,” he said.