The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Benue State Chapter, has expressed grave concern over the continued destruction, removal and vandalisation of its campaign materials, including banners, billboards and other party properties across the state. In a press release signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Bright Yima Antyo, the party described the latest incident involving the destruction of a PDP billboard in Ajio, Ishangev Ya, Kwande West State Constituency as deeply troubling and worthy of the strongest condemnation.
The PDP stated that such acts constitute a dangerous affront to democratic values and an attempt to undermine the right of political parties and their supporters to freely canvass for votes. It emphasised that political contests in a democracy should be conducted through the exchange of ideas, programmes, performance and capacity, rather than through intimidation, provocation, thuggery or the destruction of opponents’ lawful campaign materials. The party described itself as a peaceful, responsible and law-abiding organisation that has demonstrated restraint and tolerance over the years, even in the face of provocations, but warned that such tolerance must not be mistaken for weakness.
The party called on security agencies in Benue State to treat the continuous destruction of political materials with the seriousness it deserves, thoroughly investigate the incidents and bring anyone found culpable to justice, irrespective of political affiliation or status. It also urged the State Government and all political leaders to caution their supporters against acts capable of heightening political tension and undermining the peace of communities, stressing that every political party has a legitimate right to campaign, display its materials and seek the support of the electorate within the bounds of the law.
While affirming that it will continue to pursue its political objectives peacefully and democratically, the PDP said it would not remain silent in the face of a sustained pattern of intimidation, vandalisation and destruction of its lawful properties. It stated that any necessary action to protect its members, supporters and party materials would be pursued strictly within the ambit of the law. The party urged its members and supporters, particularly in Kwande and other parts of the state, to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, and not allow the actions of agents of provocation to derail their commitment to a peaceful democratic process.
Reiterating its commitment to issue-based campaigns, peaceful political engagement and the defence of democratic values, the PDP maintained that no act of vandalism, intimidation or provocation can extinguish the legitimate aspirations of its members or silence the voice of the electorate. It called on all political actors to play by the rules, respect the rights of other political parties and allow the people to freely make their choices at the ballot box.
