The South East Amalgamated Markets Traders Association (SEAMATA)—the umbrella union representing traders across all markets in the Southeast geopolitical zone, as well as those doing business across Nigeria and the diaspora—has strongly condemned the recent attack on Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections.

In a statement signed by its President-General, Chief Emeka Emechebe, and Secretary-General, Chief Chima Eruchalu, following an emergency executive meeting in Onitsha, yesterday, SEAMATA described the incident as an act of impunity, brigandage, and rascality.

The association warned that such reckless and unruly behaviour poses a serious threat to the peaceful conduct of the upcoming 2027 general elections. SEAMATA issued a stern warning to youths across Benue State and the entire federation—whether acting independently or sponsored—never, again, to violate any political candidate’s constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of movement and peaceful assembly.

“Whether they were recklessly advised or sponsored, youths must never repeat this violation of the inalienable right to freedom of movement and peaceful assembly of candidates contesting the 2027 presidential election, irrespective of their political party.

This constitutionally guaranteed right must be respected,” the statement read.

While expressing outrage over the attack, SEAMATA commended the security operatives for their professional conduct in handling the situation. The union also praised Obi for displaying exemplary humility and civility during the provocation, during which his convoy was blocked and vehicles were pelted with stones.

SEAMATA further warned that no group or individual, youth, or otherwise, holds a monopoly on violence, stressing that it would not condone lawlessness.

“We are a nation governed by the rule of law. SEAMATA will neither tolerate nor accommodate such impunity and will deploy every lawful means to forestall future acts of lawlessness,” it stated.

The association stressed that Nigeria has no place for political violence and warned against any group igniting actions that could derail the country’s democracy.

It urged the Benue State Police Command to conduct a thorough and discreet investigation into the incident and demanded that all individuals involved be arrested and brought to justice, regardless of their social or political standing, to serve as a strong deterrent.

The group appealed to all levels of government and non-state actors to safeguard the rights of candidates to campaign freely and allow citizens to vote according to their conscience. (The Sun)