Festus Keyamo, SAN, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has condemned the blocking of Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, by protesters during his planned visit to Benue State, labeling the act as "unacceptable" in a democratic society.
Speaking to Vanguard, Keyamo criticized the media for its biased reporting, stating that different standards are applied based on the political affiliation of those involved. He emphasized that preventing Obi from proceeding with his visit should be condemned, regardless of the motives behind the protests.
"The protest, whether due to internal NDC issues or orchestrated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) or another party, should not be part of our democratic process," Keyamo stated.
Despite suggestions that Obi's visit to Yelwata, a community recently affected by violence, was politically charged, Keyamo maintained that no grievances justify obstructing a political figure’s movement.
"Everyone should be free to engage in politics without such crude interference," he asserted.
Keyamo also urged Nigerians to scrutinize the media's portrayal of political protests. He pointed out that while hostile crowds confronting APC candidates are framed as "rejection" by the public, similar situations involving opposition politicians are described as attacks by "sponsored thugs."
"When it concerns the opposition, the narrative shifts dramatically," he noted, urging media outlets to adopt a more balanced approach.
He further accused opposition politicians of threatening violence against APC candidates, criticizing the media for failing to challenge these statements adequately.
"The press must extricate itself from partisanship and be fair to all," he insisted.
Keyamo called for restraint among political supporters, advocating for disagreements to be resolved through democratic means rather than violence. He reminded voters that their discontent should be expressed at the ballot box.
"Use your thumbprint, not violent acts, to express your political choices," Keyamo cautioned, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful electoral process.
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