Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The recent blockade of Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the NDC, in Benue State is quite shameful. And if the allegation that the miscreants who perpetrated this absurdity were sponsored by the Governor of the State, a supposed minister in the temple of God, is true, it makes the situation even more frightening. This was contained in a statement signed by Ken Eluma Asogwa, National Publicity Secretary, Labour Party.
The statement reads in part: “If a Reverend Father who mounts the pulpit to teach morals could descend to this level of violence, what should Nigerians expect from more indecorous politicians and governors, like the one in Edo?
“The Labour Party therefore urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rein in the governors, as actions such as this, if left unchecked, could derail our already wobbling democracy.
Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees freedom of movement, and every citizen, irrespective of tribe, political leaning or religion, must be allowed to enjoy that right. It is particularly concerning that a Governor who, as the Chief Security Officer of Benue State, has never been able to arrest and prosecute the criminals ravaging his State could instead be feasting on a man who was embarking on a humanitarian mission.
“Political differences should never become a licence for violence, intimidation or the suppression of the fundamental rights of Nigerians. The sanctity of our democracy depends on the ability of every citizen to move freely, express political opinions and participate in public life without fear of harassment or attack.
“The Labour Party will continue to condemn every attempt to weaponise state power against political opponents and will continue to stand firmly for democracy, constitutional rights and the rule of law, ” it also added.
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