Former Kano State Governor and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called on President Bola Tinubu to caution governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against actions capable of undermining democratic freedoms and restricting opposition politicians.

Kwankwaso’s demand followed the reported blockade of the convoy of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, in Makurdi, Benue State, where the Labour Party presidential candidate had gone to commiserate with victims of recent violence and their families.

Obi’s entourage was reportedly stopped by protesters who barricaded the Gboko Road area of Makurdi and allegedly chanted that they did not want the former governor in the state.

Reacting to the incident, Kwankwaso described it as “another dark day for our democracy,” arguing that political differences should not be allowed to deprive any Nigerian, including opposition figures, of the constitutional right to freedom of movement.

He urged the Benue State Government to identify and prosecute those responsible for the blockade and ensure the safety and unhindered movement of Obi and members of his entourage.

Kwankwaso also called on diplomatic missions and election-monitoring organisations to pay attention to developments that could threaten democratic freedoms and political tolerance in the country, particularly as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

His intervention has consequently widened the controversy beyond Obi’s experience in Benue, placing renewed focus on the responsibility of governments at all levels to protect opposition politicians and preserve an open political environment ahead of the 2027 general elections.