A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, Chief Mrs Mimi Adzape-Orubibi, has condemned the alleged obstruction of National Democratic Coalition (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from entering the state to visit the Yelewata Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp.
Orubibi, a former APC senatorial candidate for Benue North-West (Zone A) and former Chairman of the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS), described the alleged incident as a disturbing development capable of undermining democratic freedoms and the rights of citizens.
In a statement, she alleged that armed individuals were deployed to prevent Obi from accessing the state for the planned visit to the IDP camp.
She said the alleged action was “a direct assault on democratic freedoms and the dignity of displaced citizens” who, according to her, deserve to be seen, heard and supported.
Orubibi maintained that no governor, state authority or political actor should use intimidation or thuggery to restrict the movement of any Nigerian.
According to her, freedom of movement is constitutionally guaranteed, while no part of the country should be treated as the exclusive preserve of a political party or government official.
She further expressed concern over the alleged prevention of a presidential candidate from visiting an IDP camp, describing it as an indication of political intolerance.
“Preventing a presidential candidate from accessing an IDP camp — a place where vulnerable families are seeking safety — is an alarming display of intolerance and political desperation,” she stated.
The former BIRS chairman also condemned the alleged use of armed youths to barricade roads and intimidate political visitors, warning that such actions could threaten public safety and erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
She called on relevant authorities to investigate the alleged incident and hold accountable anyone found to have participated in organising the blockade.
“Democracy cannot thrive where intimidation replaces dialogue and where state power is used to suppress legitimate political engagement,” Orubibi said.
She urged stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria remains a country where citizens, including political candidates, can move freely, engage communities and participate in democratic activities without fear or intimidation.
Chief Mrs Mimi Adzape-Orubibi
Chieftain, Benue PDP
Former APC Senatorial Candidate, Zone A
Former Chairman, Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS)
