Elochukwu Benjamin
Awka
The Forum of State Coordinators of the Obidient Movement has demanded the immediate release of Dr. Ben Smith, the group’s Akwa Ibom State Coordinator, and other members reportedly detained following an Independence Day political gathering in Uyo.
In a statement on Friday, the coordinators condemned what they described as the use of force and tear gas by security personnel during the incident, alleging that some participants were subjected to molestation or other forms of mistreatment.
The statement followed reports of arrests during an Independence Day march involving supporters of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso in Uyo.
Reports have it that police arrested eight people during the incident and that tear gas was allegedly fired as officers dispersed supporters.
However, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command denied using firearms or recording any shooting incident, saying the arrests were made over alleged activities capable of causing a breach of public peace and violations of security directives.
The police also said the planned march had been cancelled or rescheduled because of security concerns and the possibility of clashes with other political activities scheduled for the same period.
In the statement signed by representatives of the Forum of State Coordinators from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, including Comr. Joseph Enan Maigari for the North East; Dr. Miriam Suwese Apeverga (Selma) for the North Central; Comr. Imam Malik Mahmoud for the North West; Comr. Ikenna Chukwude Claat for the South East; Comr. Asemota Igiogbe for the South South; and Hon. Ayo Akinyemi for the South West, the group described the development as a threat to democratic participation.
“We condemn the reported use of force and tear gas, as well as allegations of molestation or other mistreatment, against participants who were engaged in a peaceful political rally.
“The coordinators insisted that where security personnel intervene in political gatherings, such action must be lawful, necessary and proportionate, while the fundamental rights and dignity of citizens must be respected,” the statement said.
The Obidient coordinators called on the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to provide a clear account of the arrests and disclose the whereabouts of those detained.
“We call on the Akwa Ibom State Government, Inspector-General of Police and relevant authorities to immediately clarify the circumstances of the reported arrests, disclose where those detained are being held, and ensure that their constitutional rights and due process are fully respected,” they said.
The group further urged authorities to release the detainees immediately if there is no lawful basis for their continued detention.
It also called on the National Human Rights Commission and other relevant oversight institutions to investigate the reported incidents and take appropriate action if violations are established.
The coordinators linked their concerns to the broader preparations for the 2027 general elections. They urged political actors, security agencies and other stakeholders to protect lawful political participation and exercise restraint as election activities intensify.
The group also referenced the National Peace Accord, saying its principles underscore the importance of peaceful political participation and respect for Nigeria’s democratic process.
“The Obidient Movement remains peaceful, disciplined and committed to lawful democratic participation,” the coordinators said.
They concluded by demanding “justice, due process” and the immediate release of Dr. Ben Smith and other detained members where no lawful basis exists for their continued detention.
