Obidient Coordinators Raise Alarm Over Uyo Arrests, Demand Protection of Political Rights

By Our Reporter

The Forum of State Coordinators of the Obidient Movement has raised concerns over the arrest of its Akwa Ibom Coordinator, Dr. Ben Smith, and other members following a disputed Independence Day political gathering in Uyo.

The coordinators, in a statement signed on October 1, 2026, said the incident raises broader questions about citizens’ right to participate in political activities and the responsibility of security agencies to protect peaceful assemblies.

According to the group, participants at the planned political gathering were met with force and tear gas, while some members allegedly experienced molestation or other forms of mistreatment.

“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,” the statement said.

The police have presented a different account of the incident. The Akwa Ibom State Police Command said it had directed political groups to reschedule activities planned for October 1 after receiving intelligence suggesting that political gatherings could be exploited to cause disturbances and threaten public safety. Police also said eight people were arrested and denied that firearms were discharged during the operation.

The Obidient coordinators, however, want the circumstances surrounding the arrests independently examined.

They called on the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to disclose where the detainees are being held and ensure that their constitutional rights and due process are respected.

“Where there is no lawful basis for continued detention, we respectfully call for their immediate release,” the Forum said.

The group also appealed to the National Human Rights Commission and other oversight bodies to investigate the reported conduct of security personnel and take appropriate action if violations are established.

The dispute comes at a significant period in Nigeria’s electoral calendar. INEC has already released the timetable for the 2027 general elections, with the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for February 20, 2027, and the governorship and State House of Assembly elections scheduled for March 6, 2027.

Against that backdrop, the Forum said political participation should be conducted peacefully and within the law, while security agencies should exercise restraint.

The coordinators also referenced the National Peace Accord, arguing that its emphasis on peaceful political engagement and respect for democratic processes should guide political actors and security agencies.

“The Obidient Movement remains peaceful, disciplined and committed to lawful democratic participation,” they said.

The Forum’s demand is for justice, due process and the immediate release of Dr. Ben Smith and other members if authorities establish that there is no legal basis for their continued detention.

#