South-east youth leaders raise alarm over ‘threats’ to Peter Obi, demand protection

The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the apex socio-political youth organisation in the South East geopolitical zone, has expressed concern over what it described as alleged threats and harassment against the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, warning that no harm must befall the former Anambra State governor.

The group made its position known in a statement signed by its President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, in which it called on security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure Obi’s safety and guarantee the constitutional rights of all political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections. Blueprint reports

The coalition maintained that every Nigerian who meets the constitutional requirements has the right to contest for elective office without intimidation, coercion or fear, irrespective of political affiliation or ideology.

Concern over alleged threats

COSEYL said it was alarmed by what it described as recent developments surrounding Obi, noting that reports indicating the former presidential candidate fears for his safety should not be ignored by the authorities.

According to the group, the issue goes beyond political disagreements, stressing that every Nigerian citizen is entitled to protection under the Constitution and the rule of law.

It said political competition in a democratic society should be based on ideas, policies and programmes rather than intimidation or threats against opponents.

“Whether one agrees or disagrees with Mr. Peter Obi’s political views is completely irrelevant. What is relevant is that every Nigerian citizen has an inviolable constitutional right to life, freedom of association, freedom of movement, freedom of expression, and the right to participate in the democratic process without intimidation, harassment or fear,” the statement read.

The coalition warned that any attack on Obi or any other political figure would amount to an assault on Nigeria’s democracy and could undermine public confidence in the country’s electoral process.

Cites constitutional provisions

The South East youth group anchored its position on provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), insisting that the rights of every citizen are clearly guaranteed.

It pointed out that Section 33(1) guarantees every person’s right to life, while Section 40 protects the right of citizens to freely assemble and associate, including for political purposes.

The coalition also referenced Sections 65, 106, 131 and 177 of the Constitution, which prescribe the qualifications for contesting elective offices at different levels of government.

According to COSEYL, the constitutional provisions affirm that every eligible Nigerian has the right to aspire to public office, provided the prescribed legal requirements are met.

The group argued that no individual, institution or political interest has the constitutional authority to deny any qualified Nigerian that right through intimidation, harassment or unlawful interference.

Democracy must be protected

The coalition stressed that democracy thrives on the competition of ideas and not on fear or violence.

It noted that elections should always be decided by voters at the ballot box rather than through intimidation of political opponents.

COSEYL said allowing threats against political actors to go unchecked would send the wrong signal about Nigeria’s democratic credentials and could discourage citizens from participating in the political process.

The group therefore urged all political stakeholders to embrace tolerance, mutual respect and issue-based campaigns as the country gradually prepares for another general election cycle.

It also reminded politicians and their supporters that political rivalry should never degenerate into hostility capable of threatening national peace and stability.

Calls on security agencies

The youth organisation called on security agencies to discharge their constitutional responsibility by ensuring adequate protection for every Nigerian, irrespective of political party, religion or ethnic background.

It maintained that government has a duty to provide security for all citizens without discrimination.

The coalition also urged law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate any credible allegations of threats, intimidation or harassment involving public figures and to ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.

According to the statement, impartiality by security agencies would help build public confidence and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Warns against political intolerance

COSEYL cautioned against the growing trend of political intolerance, insisting that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens and not to any individual or political party.

The coalition observed that democratic societies flourish when opposing views are respected and political competition is conducted peacefully.

Quoting an African proverb, the group said, “Even the madman has relatives,” explaining that every human life is valuable and that any attack on one citizen has consequences that extend far beyond the individual concerned.

“It is the height of disrespect to the Nigerian people for anyone to contemplate silencing a political opponent through intimidation or violence. Such thinking is fundamentally inconsistent with constitutional democracy and the rule of law,” the statement added.

Background to the controversy

The statement comes amid heightened political activities and growing discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties, interest groups and prospective aspirants already positioning themselves for the next electoral contest.

Peter Obi, who has remained one of Nigeria’s prominent opposition figures since the 2023 presidential election, has continued to attract significant public attention through his nationwide engagements and advocacy on governance, economic reforms and accountability.

His political activities have generated widespread support among many Nigerians while also attracting criticism from political opponents, reflecting the increasingly competitive political environment ahead of the next election.

Against this backdrop, COSEYL said it considered it necessary to remind all stakeholders that the Constitution guarantees equal political rights to every eligible citizen and that no one should be subjected to threats or intimidation because of political ambition.

Reaffirms commitment to democracy

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, constitutionalism, justice and the peaceful coexistence of all Nigerians.

It called on the Federal Government and relevant authorities to publicly reaffirm their commitment to protecting the lives and constitutional rights of all political actors, regardless of party affiliation.

The group further urged the creation of a political environment where all qualified Nigerians can freely campaign, associate and contest elections without fear.

COSEYL maintained that leadership in a democratic society must always emerge through free, fair, credible and peaceful elections, insisting that the sovereign will of the people should remain the ultimate determinant of political leadership.

The coalition concluded by declaring that Nigeria’s democracy must never be undermined by fear, intimidation or political violence, stressing that safeguarding the constitutional rights of all citizens remains essential to preserving the country’s democratic future.