The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 persons over Tuesday’s alleged obstruction of the movement of the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the state.
The arrests came barely 24 hours after the incident, which reportedly created tension around Obi’s movement and raised concerns about his safety during his visit.
The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed the development on Wednesday in Makurdi, saying the command launched intelligence-led operations immediately after the incident to identify those involved.
Nwadiogbu said the police had been notified of Obi’s visit at about 5:30pm on Monday, September 7, prompting the deployment of security personnel, including three police escort vehicles led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police.
According to the commissioner, Obi’s movement was later obstructed by a group of persons, creating a tense situation that could have degenerated into violence.
He said the police chose to avoid confrontation to prevent possible casualties and destruction of property, adding that officers subsequently escorted Obi to the airport, from where he departed the state safely.
The CP, however, warned that the decision to avoid confrontation should not be mistaken for police inaction.
“Let me state clearly that the tactical decision taken by the police should not be mistaken for inaction.
“The command immediately commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Forty-six arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident,” he said.
Nwadiogbu reaffirmed the command’s neutrality, stressing that every Nigerian had the right to freedom of movement regardless of political affiliation, status or personal belief.
He said the police would prosecute anyone found culpable, warning that no individual or group had the right to unlawfully obstruct another person’s movement.
“The command assures the public that all those found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said.
The commissioner urged residents to remain calm while the investigation continues.