By Jelili Gbadamosi
Deji Adeyanju, Human rights lawyer and political activist, has called for accountability following the reported attack on presidential candidate Peter Obi and his supporters in Benue State.
Adeyanju described the alleged incident as a disturbing development, arguing that political disagreements should not prevent citizens or political candidates from moving freely or participating in democratic activities.
In a statement, he stressed that freedom of movement is a constitutional right and should not be compromised because of political differences.
According to him, the incident is particularly concerning because it reportedly involved a presidential candidate and his supporters, insisting that political contests should be based on competing ideas, policies and development plans.
“Politics is about competing ideas, policies and blueprints, not thuggery, intimidation or rigging,” Adeyanju said.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to publicly condemn the reported incident and called on Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to ensure that acts of political violence are not tolerated by the state government.
Adeyanju also appealed to political supporters and loyalists to refrain from actions that could undermine peaceful political participation or democratic processes.
He warned that attempts by individuals to impress political leaders through intimidation or violence could further weaken public confidence in the political system.
The activist therefore called for responsible conduct among political actors and their supporters, stressing the need for political disagreements to be resolved through peaceful and democratic means.
