Another dark day for democracy — Kwankwaso condemns attack on Obi’s convoy
By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA — Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Vice-Presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), condemned a recent attack on the convoy of Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate, during an incident in Benue State. Kwankwaso characterized the event as “another dark day” for Nigeria’s democracy.
The incident involved an apparent attempt to obstruct Obi’s entry into Makurdi, which Kwankwaso argued is unacceptable. He stressed that political differences should not interfere with the fundamental right of free movement within the country.
“We are deeply disturbed by the attack on the convoy of our presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as he traveled to Benue State,” Kwankwaso said at the Rebuild Nigeria Summit organized by the OKAY A NEW NIGERIA Initiative. He called on the Benue State Government to take immediate action to investigate the occurrence, hold accountable those responsible, and ensure the safety of Obi and his team.
Kwankwaso also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the actions of state governors from the ruling party, warning that such actions could threaten democratic freedoms. “I further urge the President to caution state governors against actions that undermine the sanctity of our democracy,” he added.
Moreover, the former Governor of Kano urged diplomatic missions and international election observers to pay attention to the situation, emphasizing the need for Nigerian authorities to protect opposition politicians and uphold the rule of law.
Earlier, Hon. Chibuisi Mba, the National Coordinator of OKAY A NEW NIGERIA, commented on the summit’s goal of mobilizing support groups ahead of the 2027 elections. He encouraged Nigerians to reject vote-buying and to move beyond ethnic and religious divisions. Mba criticized politicians for exploiting poverty through manipulation during elections and voiced concern over the current administration’s handling of national resources, claiming that increased borrowing has not led to sufficient investment in vital infrastructure like schools and hospitals.
He stressed the importance of learning from past electoral mistakes, specifically from the 2023 elections, and emphasized the need for a disciplined and vigilant approach as the 2027 elections approach. Highlighting the Osun election as a successful model for voter mobilization and education, Mba expressed determination to ensure strong opposition presence at polling stations.
“Our supporters must remain vigilant. We will not give them an inch. It will be bumper to bumper at the polling units,” Mba declared.
He urged grassroots mobilization for the forthcoming election, framing the contest as crucial for Nigeria’s future. “This is about Nigeria. This is about the future of our children,” he stated, asserting that the campaign will prioritize the installation of Obi as President and Kwankwaso as Vice President in 2027.
The summit also featured the attendance of prominent figures, including Kwankwaso’s long-standing political associate Alhaji Buba Galadima and activist Aisha Yesufu.
