Amnesty International has condemned the reported blocking of opposition presidential candidate Peter Obi and his team from entering Benue State, describing the incident as a dangerous display of political hooliganism capable of undermining Nigeria’s democratic process.
The rights organisation, in a statement posted on its official Facebook page, said “no state is a no-go area for any person”, stressing that Nigerians should be free to travel to and participate in activities anywhere in the country without intimidation.
Amnesty International said it was deeply concerned by what it described as the “reckless and unlawful use of political thugs” to prevent Obi and his entourage from entering Benue.
According to the organisation, heavily armed youths allegedly barricaded the Gboko Road in Makurdi, the state capital, in what appeared to be a coordinated action that put members of the opposition NDC entourage at risk.
It said the Benue State Government had questions to answer over the alleged incident, adding that no Nigerian requires permission or prior notification to visit any part of the country.
The organisation further warned that the harassment of opposition candidates by alleged state-endorsed vigilante groups or political thugs was unlawful and dangerous to the electoral process.
Amnesty International said the incident was particularly disturbing against the backdrop of what it described as increasing political repression, including alleged attempts to prevent opposition parties from holding meetings and attacks on rival political activities.
It accused relevant authorities of doing too little to prevent political violence and repression, while expressing concern over the failure to investigate and prosecute those allegedly responsible for such acts.The organisation urged political parties and candidates to make a firm commitment against violence and political thuggery as the country moves through the election season.
For ordinary Nigerians, Amnesty International said, the issue goes beyond one politician or one political party: the freedom to move, assemble and participate in political activities without fear is at the heart of democracy.If you want, I can also make it more tabloid-like and punchy, with a stronger UKATA-style headline and shorter paragraphs.
