Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to freedom of movement, which, he said, should be respected irrespective of political affiliation or status
By Mmesoma Onwuka
Former Kano State Governor and vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has condemned the reported attack on the convoy of his presidential candidate, Peter Obi, while he was travelling to Benue State.
Kwankwaso described the incident as disturbing, saying any attempt to obstruct Obi’s movement or prevent him from entering Makurdi raises serious concerns about political freedom and democratic rights in the country.
He stressed that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to freedom of movement, which, he said, should be respected irrespective of political affiliation or status.
Kwankwaso urged the Benue State Government to immediately investigate the reported incident, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.
He also called on the state authorities to provide adequate security for Obi and ensure the unhindered movement of the NDC presidential candidate and members of his entourage.
Kwankwaso further appealed to President Bola Tinubu to caution state governors, particularly those elected on the platform of the ruling party, against actions that could undermine democratic institutions and political freedoms.
He also urged the international community, diplomatic missions and election monitoring organisations to take note of the incident and encourage Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect political actors and safeguard citizens’ democratic rights.