Amnesty International has condemned the obstruction of the convoy of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, in Benue State, describing it as an “unprecedented and dangerous act of political hooliganism.”
In a statement on Wednesday, the human rights organisation said the incident, in which heavily armed youths allegedly barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi, puts the entourage of the opposition candidate at risk and undermines the democratic process.
“No Nigerian needs anybody’s permission or prior notification to visit any part of the country — at all times. No state is a no-go area for any person or supporters of any political party,” Amnesty said.
The group accused the Benue State Government of having questions to answer over what it described as the “reckless and unlawful use of political thugs” to block Obi from entering the state.
Amnesty further alleged a pattern of political repression, citing cases since last year of hotels being prevented from hosting opposition meetings, direct attacks on rival party activities, and other acts that undermine a level playing field.
The organisation expressed concern that the Nigerian Government is doing “very little” to prevent political repression and violence, and faulted the failure of authorities to investigate and prosecute perpetrators.
It called on political parties and candidates to make an anti-violence and anti-thuggery stance a clear part of their 2027 election campaigns.
