Ado-Iliyasu Condemns Reported Attack On Peter Obi’s Convoy In Benue, Demands Investigation
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate, Dr. Ibrahim Ado Iliyasu Kwali has condemned the reported attack and roadblock involving the convoy of the party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, in Benue State.
The Chartered Arbitrator and President of the North Central People’s Development Initiative, described the reported incident as unacceptable and dangerous, stressing that no citizen, particularly a national political leader, should be harassed, intimidated or obstructed while exercising his constitutional rights.
In a statement issued on the incident, the FCT Senate hopeful said public roads belong to Nigerians and should not be used as instruments of intimidation or political suppression.
He noted that freedom of movement and the right to peaceful assembly and association are protected under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.
Iliyasu cited Section 41(1), which guarantees the right of every Nigerian citizen to move freely throughout the country, as well as Section 40, which provides for the right to assemble freely and associate with others.
He said any attempt to obstruct political activities through intimidation or violence was inimical to democratic development and should be thoroughly investigated.
“If this act was sponsored or encouraged by anyone connected to the state government or those in power, it is deeply troubling. Public office is a duty to serve and protect, not a license to intimidate citizens or empower thugs,” he said.
Iliyasu consequently called on the Benue State Government to publicly condemn the reported attack and urged the relevant security agencies to conduct a transparent investigation into the incident.
He further demanded that anyone found responsible should be brought to justice, irrespective of political affiliation or connections.
The NDC candidate also appealed for Mr. Obi to be allowed to continue his visit to Benue State without further interference, saying the people of the state deserved peace, security and respect for their constitutional rights.
He urged political actors and their supporters to uphold peace and democratic values as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum.
“We will not be silenced. We will not be intimidated. Democracy must prevail,” Iliyasu stated.
Iliyasu, who is also the President of the North Central People’s Development Initiative, is campaigning for the FCT Senate seat on the NDC platform with his “Fresh Air” agenda, which focuses on accountable leadership, grassroots representation, healthcare, rural infrastructure, employment and inclusive governance.
