Benue Convoy Blockade: Amnesty International Slams Benue Govt Over “Reckless, Unlawful” Use Of Thugs To Block Peter Obi, Demands Answers

Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over the alleged blocking of the presidential candidate of the opposition Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, from entering Benue State, describing it as a brazen act of political repression.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, the global human rights organisation said the Benue State Government has questions to answer for the “reckless and unlawful use of political thugs” that barricaded the opposition candidate’s entourage.

“Benue state government has questions to answer for this brazen act of political repression. No Nigerian needs anybody’s permission to visit any part of the country at all times,” Amnesty stated.

The organisation described the incident as “an unprecedented and dangerous act that undermines the entire democratic process.”

According to Amnesty, heavily armed youth unlawfully barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi, the state capital, in what appears to be a coordinated move that put the entourage of the opposition NDC at risk.

“Harassment of rival candidates by state-endorsed armed vigilante groups or thugs is unlawful,” the statement added.

Amnesty warned that alarming intolerance, incitements and other efforts to undermine democracy must be decisively addressed now.

The organisation disclosed that since last year, it has been documenting a shocking level of political repression, including preventing hotels from hosting political meetings organized by the opposition, direct attacks on political activities and other acts that undermine the existence of level playing field politically.

“We are seriously concerned that the Nigerian Government is doing very little to prevent political repression and violence. Some states have been implementing unpronounced policy of using all means of shutting out any political opposition.”

“We are also concerned by the failure of the relevant authorities to investigate and bring to justice the suspected perpetrators of such acts,” Amnesty said.

The organisation further called on political parties and candidates to make anti-violence and thuggery stance a clear and integral part of their elections campaign.