Tambuwal Condemns Obstruction of Peter Obi’s Movement in Benue, Demands Investigation

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

Former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has condemned the reported obstruction of Peter Obi’s movement by a group of youths in Makurdi, Benue State, describing the incident as unacceptable and undemocratic.

Tambuwal said Obi, a former governor and presidential candidate, has a constitutional right as a Nigerian citizen to move freely across the country and engage in lawful political activities without intimidation, harassment or obstruction.

He stressed that as political activities intensify, candidates must be allowed to travel freely, engage citizens, canvass for support and carry out legitimate campaigns in any part of Nigeria without fear.

According to him, no individual, group or political interest has the authority to determine who can enter a state, community or any other part of the country.

“Political differences must never become an excuse for intimidation, violence or brigandage. We must compete on the strength of our ideas, programmes and policies and, ultimately, allow Nigerians to make their choices freely at the ballot box,” Tambuwal said.

The former governor called on the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant security and law-enforcement agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable in accordance with the law.

“This kind of rascality must not be tolerated, irrespective of who is involved or which political party is affected. Today, it may be Peter Obi; tomorrow, it could be another candidate,” he said.

Tambuwal maintained that Nigeria belongs to all citizens and that everyone should be able to participate freely in the country’s democratic process without intimidation.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every Nigerian must be free to move and participate in our democratic process without fear or intimidation,” he added.