Photo: Mr Peter Obi
By Mandy Park
The POMR has accused the All Progressives Congress of allegedly resorting to intimidation and political violence in Enugu State, calling on security agencies to investigate reports of politically motivated attacks and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The organisation condemned what it described as persistent reports of intimidation and killings linked to political activities in the state, insisting that violence must not be allowed to undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement signed by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, POMR said political parties should seek public support through their records in office, policies and engagement with voters rather than intimidation.
It said, “If the APC has accomplishments to present, it should disclose them to Nigerians. If it enjoys the people’s confidence, it should face them at the ballot box. Violence, intimidation, and the killing of citizens cannot substitute for competent governance.”
The organisation described the reported incidents in Enugu as unacceptable and urged the relevant authorities to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation into allegations of politically motivated killings, threats and attacks.
It called on security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged incidents and identify anyone who ordered, financed, facilitated or carried out the attacks.
POMR also demanded that anyone found culpable should be prosecuted in accordance with the law, irrespective of political affiliation, public office or influence.
“Any political leadership that allows fear to replace persuasion must be held responsible,” the statement said.
The organisation further urged electoral and law enforcement authorities to take preventive measures against political violence, protect opposition candidates and their supporters, and guarantee citizens’ right to participate in the democratic process without fear.
It said victims of political violence and their families deserved justice, while Nigerians deserved transparent explanations from the authorities concerning allegations of attacks in the state.
POMR warned that public office should not be used to shield anyone from accountability, adding that no political party had ownership of a state and no electoral ambition could justify the loss of human lives.
It urged opposition parties and their supporters to resist intimidation through lawful, peaceful and democratic means, stressing that Nigerians should not surrender their constitutional rights because of threats or violence.
The statement added, “Our message is clear: account for your record, answer for your conduct, and face the Nigerian people—not the barrel of a gun.”
The organisation maintained that Nigeria needed leaders who respected human life, upheld the rule of law and earned public confidence through their performance in office.
It also called for the protection of the electoral process, warning that political competition should not turn polling and campaign activities into occasions for violence.
