By Our Reporter
The Forum of State Coordinators of the Obidient Movement has tackled the Police and the government of Akwa Ibom State over the arrest and detention of the Movement’s Coordinator for Akwa Ibom,and other members in Uyo on October 1, 2026
In a press statement titled ‘Rape of Democracy,’ and signed by Coordinators representing the six geopolitical zones of the country, the Forum demanded “justice, due process and the immediate release of Dr. Ben Smith and other detained Obidient Movement members.”
The statement was signed by Comrade Joseph Enan Maigari for North East; Dr. Miriam Suwese Apeverga (Selma) for North Central, and Comrade Imam Malik Mahmoud for North West geopolitical zones.
From the South, Comrade Ikenna Chukwude Claat signed for Coordinators from the South East; Comrade Asemota Igiogbe for South South while Hon. Ayo Akinyemi signed for the South West.
It read in part: “The Forum of State Coordinators, Obidient Movement, expresses deep concern and demand the immediate release of Dr. Ben Smith, Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, and other members following the Independence Day political campaign rally in Uyo.
“We condemn the reported use of force and tear gas, as well as allegations of molestation or other mistreatment, against participants who were engaged in a peaceful political rally. Any use of force by security personnel must be lawful, necessary and proportionate, and the dignity and rights of citizens must be respected at all times.
“INEC has formally commenced the 2027 electoral process and, under its published timetable, has provided for the commencement of public campaigns from August 2026 for Presidential and National Assembly elections and 9 September 2026 for Governorship and State House of Assembly elections.
“Political participation and lawful campaign activities must therefore be protected in accordance with the Electoral Act and other applicable laws.”
While calling on the Akwa Ibom State government, Inspector-General of Police and relevant authorities to immediately clarify the circumstances of the reported arrests, the Forum demanded that the Police should disclose where those detained were being held, and “ensure that their constitutional rights and due process are fully respected.”
The press statement further called on “the National Human Rights Commission and other relevant oversight bodies to urgently examine the reported incidents and take appropriate action where violations are established.”
“The National Peace Accord,” it added, “signed by presidential and gubernatorial candidates, political party chairpersons, and key electoral and security stakeholders under the guidance of the National Peace Committee and The Kukah Centre, underscores the importance of peaceful political participation and respect for democratic processes.
“The Obidient Movement remains peaceful, disciplined and committed to lawful democratic participation. We urge all political actors and security agencies to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.”
