We Condemn The Unconstitutional Attack and Barrier Against H.E. Peter Obi’s Visit to Yelwata Community – Benue State

As advocates of democracy, rule of law, and good governance, we strongly condemn the shameful and unconstitutional act of stopping the Presidential Candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), *H.E. Peter Obi*, from visiting the *Yelwata community in Benue State*.

This act is a direct assault on the fundamental rights to freedom of movement, association, and political participation guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

Although the Benue State Government has issued a feeble denial of involvement, the people of Benue State know the truth. *The general consensus across Benue is that the Governor is the sponsor of this act of brigandage and political intolerance.* To deny it is to insult the intelligence of Nigerians.

Nigerians and the world at large must take note of these *ceaseless attacks and intimidation targeted at H.E. Peter Obi* and other opposition voices. This is not the first time. It is becoming a pattern — and patterns unchecked become policy.

*The danger in these acts cannot be overstated.* Nigeria is a fragile federation. Actions like this are designed to provoke ethnic and political tension. They could spark nationwide violence that may degenerate into a tribal war. *Let it be on record: No nation survives an internal war twice and remains standing.*

We will not keep quiet while democracy is being dismantled in broad daylight.

Therefore, we call on:
1. *The United Nations, the European Union, the African Union, and all world leaders* to intervene and plead with *President Bola Ahmed Tinubu* to immediately rein in his governors and party agents who have made it their pastime to threaten and harass members of other political parties.
2. *President Tinubu* to publicly condemn this act and ensure that no governor uses state apparatus to obstruct opposition leaders.
3. *The Benue State Government* to apologize to H.E. Peter Obi and the people of Yelwata, and to guarantee the safety of all Nigerians regardless of party affiliation.

Nigeria needs politics of ideas, not politics of violence. Political parties should be competing on how to return Nigeria to the path of prosperity, security, and unity — *not violence and brigandage.*

We will not be silenced. An injury to one is an injury to all.

*Signed,*
Citizen Eliashib Ime-James
Convener
People’s Organic Movement – POM