By Clement Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – A former diplomat and political figure, Oseloka Obaze has condemned the reported attack on members and supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu State, describing the incident as a threat to democracy and demanding urgent action from Governor Peter Mbah.
Obaze, in a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday, described the attack as “undemocratic, unconstitutional” and a violation of existing electoral campaign laws.
He warned that political violence threatened the foundations of democracy, particularly citizens’ freedoms of assembly, association, movement and speech, as well as their right to choose their political parties and preferred candidates.
According to him, the responsibility for ending such unlawful conduct rests squarely on Mbah, both as governor and Chief Security Officer of the state.
Obaze urged the governor to publicly declare zero tolerance for political violence and take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
He warned that failure to act could be interpreted as tacit approval of the alleged misconduct by the governor and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The incident in Enugu is a blackspot on the City and State, well renowned for being cosmopolitan and hospitable,” he said, insisting that political activities must not be allowed to tarnish Enugu’s reputation as a haven of peace.
The former diplomat further argued that there was no justification for political violence in a democracy, particularly when those currently in positions of authority had campaigned and won elections without hindrance.
He cautioned against any attempt by the authorities in Enugu to contribute to what he described as Nigeria’s shrinking political space, stressing that citizens must be free to participate in political activities without fear of intimidation or attack. Obaze called on the relevant authorities to ensure that those found responsible for violating the law are held accountable.
The former Secretary to State Government, maintained that protecting political freedoms and enforcing the rule of law were essential to safeguarding democracy and preserving peace in Enugu State.
