The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 people in connection with the blockade of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, on Tuesday.The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this at a press conference held in Makurdi on Wednesday.According to the CP, the police officers deployed for the visit of the former governor of Anambra State took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property.He said the tactical decision taken by the command should not be mistaken for inaction, adding that Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport.He said, “Unfortunately, Mr Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have degenerated into violence.“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. Mr Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.“The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this at a press conference held in Makurdi on Wednesday.According to the CP, the police officers deployed for the visit of the former governor of Anambra State took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property.He said the tactical decision taken by the command should not be mistaken for inaction, adding that Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport.He said, “Unfortunately, Mr Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have degenerated into violence.“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. Mr Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.“The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. According to the CP, the police officers deployed for the visit of the former governor of Anambra State took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property.He said the tactical decision taken by the command should not be mistaken for inaction, adding that Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport.He said, “Unfortunately, Mr Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have degenerated into violence.“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. Mr Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.“The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. He said the tactical decision taken by the command should not be mistaken for inaction, adding that Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport.He said, “Unfortunately, Mr Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have degenerated into violence.“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. Mr Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.“The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. He said, “Unfortunately, Mr Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have degenerated into violence.“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. Mr Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.“The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. Mr Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.“The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “The command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. Meanwhile, condemnations have continued to trail the obstruction of Obi’s convoy on Tuesday.The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The campaign team of the Allied People’s Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication, Anthony Ehilebo, read, “We strongly condemn the unwarranted obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the NDC and former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.“The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “The incident, in which Mr Obi’s convoy was obstructed by a group of suspected state-sponsored thugs on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the tragic killings in the area, is deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The team argued that every Nigerian had a constitutional right to freely enter and move within any state to undertake legitimate activities without prior permission.The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The statement continued, “Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the freedom to move throughout the country and reside in any part thereof. Similarly, Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freely assemble and associate.“We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “We, therefore, find the statement credited to the Benue State Government that the NDC presidential candidate did not seek prior permission from the state government before his visit as completely unacceptable and condemnable.“Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “Let us make it clear: every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live, and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice. Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It urged the police to ensure a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book in the interest of democracy.In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. In the same vein, a faction of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State condemned the attack on Obi.It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to apologise to Obi, President Bola Tinubu, Benue people and the party in general for an incident that has the potential to bring the party into disrepute.Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. Daniel Ihomun, the state publicity secretary of the factional group led by Austin Agada and loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the ugly incident was alien to Benue people, whom he noted are hospitable, peaceful and respectful.“This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “This is not Benue. This is not our culture. And this is not the APC. Peter Obi came to Benue in a moment of grief to identify with victims of one of the most painful tragedies suffered by our people at the hands of armed Fulani herdsmen.“His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “His visit should have been received with civility and respect. Instead, the reported deployment of thugs to disrupt his movement is a shameful display of intolerance that has no place in a democratic society.“Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “Political differences are legitimate; political violence is not. Benue deserves better,” the statement read.Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. Also, the Kwankwaso National Network, South-East zone, warned that nothing must happen to Obi.The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The group’s position was contained in a statement by its South-East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Ukpai Iro Ukpai.The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The group demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, warning “any attempt to trivialise the development could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.”While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. While describing the development as “barbaric, dangerous and totally unacceptable,” the group insists “no political disagreement could justify exposing a major presidential candidate to violence.”It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It added, “Nothing must happen to Peter Obi. Nothing must happen to any presidential candidate. The security and safety of every political actor must be guaranteed, irrespective of party, tribe or religion.”It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It further urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify the masterminds and prosecute those found culpable.“There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “There can be no excuse for failing to fish out those behind this attack. The videos are already in the public domain. Nigerians want to know who mobilised the youths, who sponsored them and why they were allowed to block the convoy of a presidential candidate in broad daylight,” it added.Related News12 in police net over killing of Anambra comedian2027: Ododo moves to unite Kogi APCAs 2027 approaches, Gombe battles new face of political thuggeryThe group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The group dismissed as “infantile and lame” the explanation attributed to Alia that Obi did not notify the state government ahead of his visit.It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It argued that failure to notify the government of a visit, even if established, could never constitute a licence for political thugs to attack or obstruct a presidential candidate.They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. They warned that any harm to Obi could trigger “widespread tension, deepen political distrust and create unnecessary instability in an already highly-charged pre-election environment.”It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It added, “Peter Obi commands a huge following across Nigeria, particularly among young people. Any attempt to harm him, intimidate him or prevent him from freely moving around the country will not be seen as an attack on one man alone.“It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “It will be interpreted by millions of Nigerians as an attack on their political rights and democratic space.”The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The group consequently urged the Federal Government and security agencies to provide watertight security for Obi and all other presidential, governorship and legislative candidates as political campaigns intensify.On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. On its part, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over the investigation into the attack on Obi and his entourage in Benue State.SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. SERAP, in a statement, called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify those behind the attack.The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The statement read, “The IGP should take over the case to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and comprehensively, including determining whether any public officials, political actors or other persons were involved in, sponsored, facilitated or condoned the reported attack.”The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The organisation described the reported incident as a threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process.SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. SERAP said, “The reported attack is a serious threat to political participation, civic space and Nigeria’s democratic process. It is an affront to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.”It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It urged the authorities to protect politicians, political candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.“The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “The authorities must ensure that politicians, candidates, journalists, civil society actors and other citizens can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and political participation without fear of intimidation or attack,” SERAP held.The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against political actors could further shrink Nigeria’s civic and political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. SERAP said the incident should be viewed against the country’s history of political violence, intimidation and impunity.“The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “The failure to investigate and prosecute political violence would deny victims justice and create an atmosphere of impunity that emboldens further attacks,” it said.SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. SERAP also warned that allowing political violence to go unpunished could undermine the rule of law and public confidence in democratic institutions.“No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “No individual or political group should be above the law. Impunity for political violence can only embolden further attacks and threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” the organisation said.The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. The group called on political parties, candidates, supporters and public officials to refrain from threats, inflammatory rhetoric and violence and respect the rights of political opponents and citizens to participate freely in public affairs.SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. SERAP further cited constitutional and international protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation, saying such rights would be meaningless if citizens could not exercise them without fear of intimidation or violence.“Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “Nigeria cannot afford a repetition of the cycle of political violence and impunity that has undermined previous elections,” the statement read.It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It urged President Tinubu to act swiftly by directing the IGP to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and their sponsors, and ensure accountability where there is sufficient admissible evidence.“Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “Accountability for the reported attack is essential not only to secure justice but also to send a clear message that political violence and intimidation will not be tolerated,” SERAP held.Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. Also, the Amnesty International Nigeria called for an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident.In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. In a statement posted on its verified X handle, the organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must ensure an impartial, independent and timely investigation of the incident yesterday in Benue State in which the presidential candidate of NDC, Peter Obi, and his entourage were blocked and attacked by armed youth.”It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. It added, “Blocking an entire political party and its supporters from entering a state is the highest level of political intolerance.“No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “No part of Nigeria should be a no-go area for anyone. A person does not require permission or notification to exercise freedom of movement and personal liberty.”Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. Amnesty said democracy would only thrive on freedom and justice, adding that repeated attacks and intimidation against opposition figures could make it more difficult for them to associate freely and hold public gatherings.“No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated. “No one should lose their life or face violence simply for taking part in peaceful political activities,” the organisation stated.