By Adegboyega Adeleye
Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Rabiu Kwankwaso has condemned the reported attack on the convoy of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Benue State, urging President Bola Tinubu to caution state governors against actions that could undermine democracy.
Kwankwaso, in a statement on his official X handle on Tuesday, described the incident as a disturbing development and called on the Benue State Government to identify and prosecute those responsible.
“I am deeply disturbed by the attack on the convoy of our presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as he travelled to Benue State,” Kwankwaso said.
He alleged that “The deliberate mobilisation of unruly elements” was used to block and attack Obi’s convoy and prevent him from entering Makurdi.
“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,” he said.
Kwankwaso said the Constitution guarantees every citizen freedom of movement, arguing that the right should apply to Obi as a former governor and leading opposition figure.
He urged the Benue State Government to ensure those responsible were “swiftly identified and prosecuted”, while also calling for adequate protection for Obi and his entourage.
Kwankwaso further appealed to Tinubu to caution state governors, particularly those of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, against actions that could undermine democratic freedoms.
“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 added.
The NDC vice-presidential candidate also called on the international community, diplomatic missions and election observation groups to take note of the incident and urge Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect opposition leaders.
The incident came as Obi travelled to Benue amid renewed concerns over insecurity in the state. The former Anambra governor had visited communities affected by recent attacks in Benue in August, calling on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.
Reports on Tuesday said suspected thugs blocked Obi’s convoy while he was travelling in the state, although details surrounding the incident were still emerging.
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