By Our Reporter
The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 people in connection with the obstruction of the movement of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, during his visit to the state on Tuesday.
The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this on Wednesday at a press conference in Makurdi, explaining that the arrests followed intelligence-led operations launched shortly after the incident.
Nwadiogbu said the command was notified of Obi’s visit at about 5:30pm on Monday, September 7, after which security personnel were deployed to provide protection for the former Anambra State governor throughout his movement in the state.
He said the deployment included three police escort vehicles, with personnel led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police.
According to the commissioner, Obi’s movement was later obstructed by a group of people, creating tension and raising fears that the situation could escalate into violence.
He said the police opted for a tactical response to prevent possible loss of lives and destruction of property.
“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property,” Nwadiogbu said.
He added that police personnel subsequently escorted Obi safely back to the airport, from where he departed the state peacefully.
The commissioner stressed that the police response should not be interpreted as inaction, noting that the command immediately commenced investigations to identify those responsible for the incident.
“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 neutrality of the police, insisting that the command would protect the rights of all Nigerians regardless of their political affiliations.
“The Benue State Police Command remains a neutral and professional institution. Every Nigerian has the right to freedom of movement, irrespective of political affiliation, status or personal belief,” he said.
He warned that no individual or group had the right to unlawfully prevent another person from moving freely.
“No individual or group has 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,” the commissioner said.
He urged residents to remain calm and allow the police to conclude their investigation into the incident.