Tambuwal Demands Action Over Alleged Obstruction of Peter Obi in Benue
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
Former Governor of Sokoto State and Senator, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has condemned the reported obstruction of the movement of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, by a group of youths in Makurdi, Benue State.
Tambuwal described the incident as “unacceptable” and “undemocratic,” arguing that such conduct has no place in Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement issued by his media office on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Tambuwal said Obi, as a Nigerian citizen, former governor and presidential candidate of a duly recognised political party, has the constitutional right to move freely across the country and undertake lawful political activities without intimidation or harassment.
He stressed that with political campaigns underway, every candidate should be free to travel across Nigeria, meet citizens, canvass for support and present their programmes to voters.
Tambuwal warned that political actors or their supporters must not attempt to determine who can enter a state, community or any part of the country, stressing that no individual or group has the authority to deny another Nigerian access to any part of Nigeria.
He said political differences should not be allowed to degenerate into intimidation or violence, urging political parties and their supporters to focus on presenting their ideas and policies to Nigerians.
“Political differences must never become an excuse for intimidation, violence or brigandage. We must compete on the strength of our ideas, programmes and policies and, ultimately, allow Nigerians to make their choices freely at the ballot box,” Tambuwal said.
The former governor further called on the Inspector-General of Police and relevant security and law-enforcement authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable in accordance with the law.
He warned that tolerating such behaviour could set a dangerous precedent for other political candidates and participants in the electoral process.
“This kind of rascality must not be tolerated, irrespective of who is involved or which political party is affected. Today, it may be Peter Obi; tomorrow, it could be another candidate,” he stated.
Tambuwal added that the freedom of movement and participation in democratic activities should be guaranteed to all Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliations.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every Nigerian must be free to move and participate in our democratic process without fear or intimidation,” he said.
