Former Kano State Governor and 2027 presidential hopeful, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has condemned the reported attack on the convoy of Peter Obi in Benue State, describing the incident as a threat to democratic freedoms and calling for the immediate prosecution of those responsible.
Kwankwaso, in a statement, said he was “deeply disturbed” by the incident involving Obi, the presidential candidate he referred to as “our presidential candidate”, as the former Anambra State governor travelled to Benue.
He alleged that “unruly elements” were deliberately mobilised to obstruct Obi’s convoy and prevent the opposition figure from entering Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
“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,” Kwankwaso stated.
The former governor said the incident should not be treated merely as a disruption to a political journey, but as a matter touching on citizens’ constitutional freedoms.
He pointed to the constitutional guarantee of freedom of movement, stressing that the protection applies to every Nigerian regardless of political status.
“Authorities must remember that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of movement,” he said.
Kwankwaso added that the principle was particularly relevant to Obi, whom he described as “a former governor and leading opposition figure”.
He subsequently placed responsibility on the Benue State Government to establish what happened and identify those behind the alleged obstruction.
“The Benue State Government must, as a matter of urgency, ensure that those responsible are swiftly identified and prosecuted,” he said.
He also called on the state authorities to provide adequate protection for Obi and members of his entourage during their political activities.
According to him, the government must guarantee “the safety and free movement” of the presidential candidate and his team.
Kwankwaso extended his appeal to President Bola Tinubu. He asked the President to caution state governors against conduct capable of weakening democratic principles.
“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 stated.
His comments place the incident within the increasingly charged political environment ahead of the 2027 general elections, where opposition parties and politicians are already positioning themselves for the presidential contest.
Beyond the immediate response from Nigerian authorities, Kwankwaso also sought international attention to the incident.
He called on diplomatic missions, election observation organisations and other members of the international community to take note of what occurred and press Nigerian authorities to protect democratic rights.
“I also call on the international community, including diplomatic missions and election observation groups, to take note of this incident and to urge Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect opposition leaders, and safeguard democratic freedoms,” he said.
Kwankwaso’s statement therefore centred on three immediate demands: an investigation into the alleged attack, prosecution of those found responsible, and guarantees for Obi’s safety and freedom of movement.
The former governor also framed the episode as a test of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, particularly the ability of political actors and public authorities to protect opposition figures during election preparations.
No further details on the identities of those allegedly involved, the extent of any damage or injuries, or the specific circumstances surrounding the obstruction were provided in Kwankwaso’s statement.
READ RELATED NEWS UPDATES
Benue Govt: We knew nothing about Obi’s visit
Obi condemns Benue convoy blockade as ‘totally unacceptable’
Obi calls for love, unity as politicians gear up for 2027
Kwankwaso questions APC campaign finance team
