Kogi State government’s attempt to deny Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to peaceful assembly in her constituency raises serious concerns about upholding democratic principles.
Development Diaries reports that despite the government’s ban on rallies in Kogi Central, citing ‘security concerns’, just a day before her scheduled visit, Akpoti-Uduaghan was met with a massive crowd of supporters who gave her a rousing welcome at her Okehi country home.
Okehi local government, Natasha’s home constituency, also imposed a curfew, seemingly aimed at preventing her from meeting with her supporters.
The restriction on public gatherings and rallies, coupled with the police warning against Akpoti-Uduaghan’s visit, suggests a possible attempt by the state government to suppress her right to freedom of movement and peaceful assembly.
The situation raises some serious questions about whether the police are being used to suppress fundamental rights.
While security concerns are valid, a ban on gatherings, especially when seemingly targeted at an opposition figure, raises questions about fairness and the protection of fundamental rights.
The Kogi State government and security agencies have a duty to ensure the safety of all citizens, including political opponents.
If there were genuine security threats, the police should have worked with the senator to manage the risks rather than outrightly restricting her from visiting her constituency.
The government’s reaction to her visit seemed more political than security-driven, which undermines the principles of democracy.
Political tensions must not become an excuse to silence opposition voices. The right to peaceful assembly is fundamental in a democracy, and using state power to limit it creates a dangerous precedent.
Furthermore, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claim of an assassination plot is a serious allegation that should not be dismissed.
The government and security agencies should launch an independent investigation to verify her claims, instead of issuing statements to discredit.
Development Diaries calls on the Kogi State government to focus on addressing any legitimate security concerns in a way that does not trample on constitutional freedom.
We also call on the police to remain independent and professional in handling political conflicts, as their primary duty is to maintain law and order, not to take sides in political battles.
