***Seeks international community intervention

THE Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Benue State, Dr Raymond Edoh, has condemned the alleged obstruction of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the state, calling for urgent international attention.

Speaking from New York, Edoh in a statement signed by his Personal Assistant on Media, Dr. Emmanuel Daudu, expressed concern over the incident, describing it as a disturbing development that could severely undermine political tolerance, freedom of movement, and democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Edoh was reacting to reports that emerged Tuesday that Obi and his entourage encountered a road blockade and an attack on their convoy shortly after arriving in Benue.

Suspected sponsored political thugs allegedly barricaded Gboko Road near the Air Force Base to prevent his entry, while video footage suggested security personnel also hindered his movement, the statement noted.

Edoh said the incident is a direct threat to fundamental democratic freedoms.

He said “What has reportedly happened in Benue should concern every organisation and institution across the world that has accepted the responsibility of protecting democratic values, political freedoms and human rights.

Consequently, the NDC chieftain appealed to global bodies, including the United Nations, African Union, and the European Union, to closely monitor Nigeria’s democratic space and ensure political actors respect the rule of law.

“The international community must not wait until democratic institutions completely collapse before it speaks. Prevention is better than intervention after a crisis has already escalated,” he warned.

Edoh explained that his appeal was a call for international solidarity and electoral observation, not foreign interference.

He pointed that preventing a presidential candidate from accessing a state simply due to his political affiliation sets a dangerous precedent for ordinary citizens.

The NDC chieftain adds that “If a presidential candidate can be prevented from entering a state because of his political identity, then every Nigerian who believes in democracy should be concerned.

“Today it may be Peter Obi, tomorrow it could be another candidate,” he cautioned.

He urged the Federal Government, security agencies, and the Benue State Government to thoroughly investigate the incident and clarify the alleged involvement of security personnel in the road blockade.

He also appealed to NDC supporters to remain calm, avoid violent retaliation, and pursue accountability through legitimate constitutional channels, despite the alleged political intimidation.

“Democracy belongs to all of us. It must not belong only to those in power. Opposition parties, candidates and ordinary citizens must have the same protection,” he insists.