The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Benue State, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN), has condemned the reported blockade of National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from accessing Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of the state.
Aondoakaa described the incident as a “disgraceful assault on democracy,” warning that it had portrayed Benue State in a negative light before Nigerians and the international community.
Obi was reportedly travelling to Yelwata on Tuesday to sympathise with families of victims of the attack on the community and distribute relief materials when youths allegedly blocked his convoy and forced him to turn back.
Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Media Assistant, James Ian, Aondoakaa said no individual, group or government had the right to prevent any Nigerian from accessing any part of the country because of political affiliation.
The former Attorney-General of the Federation said the Constitution guarantees citizens freedom of movement, association and political participation.
“He stresses that no individual, group, or government has the authority to deny any Nigerian access to any part of the country on account of political affiliation,” the statement said.
Aondoakaa also recalled President Bola Tinubu’s calls for presidential candidates and political leaders to move freely across the country, engage citizens and canvass for votes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He argued that attempts to obstruct, intimidate or attack political leaders exercising their constitutional rights were contrary to democratic principles and the President’s call for peaceful and inclusive elections.
The PDP candidate said the incident was also inconsistent with the recently signed political peace accord, under which parties and candidates committed themselves to issue-based campaigns, peaceful conduct and allowing political opponents to move freely and interact with voters.
“Democracy thrives on the free exchange of ideas rather than violence and political intolerance,” he said.
Aondoakaa expressed concern that the incident could damage the image of Benue, stressing that the actions of individuals allegedly motivated by political considerations did not represent the character of the people of the state.
“Benue people are renowned for their hospitality, civility, and respect for visitors. Our state has always welcomed people from different political, ethnic, and religious backgrounds,” he said.
He added that the reported attack on Obi was inconsistent with the values of Benue people and should be condemned by all supporters of democracy, irrespective of political affiliation.
Aondoakaa further criticised the state government over the incident, arguing that while Benue residents continued to grapple with insecurity and attacks, the government should not tolerate alleged intimidation or harassment of political opponents and visitors.
He maintained that no responsible government should encourage or be associated with political thuggery, intimidation or harassment.
The PDP governorship candidate consequently called on security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident and prosecute anyone found culpable, irrespective of political status or connections.
He also urged security agencies to ensure adequate protection for all political actors and Nigerians exercising their constitutional rights.
Aondoakaa called on the people of Benue to remain peaceful and law-abiding, stressing that violence, intimidation and political thuggery must have no place in the state’s political future.
