By Isaac Mission
Amnesty International has urged relevant authorities to investigate comments allegedly made by the Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Eze Paul Ituma, which the organisation says could intimidate political opponents ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The human rights group said it came across a video in which the local government chairman allegedly issued warnings to people he accused of opposing the interests of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Amnesty described the remarks as troubling, arguing that such statements could discourage citizens from freely participating in political activities and undermine democratic rights.
In the video, Ituma was heard warning opposition figures against entering Ohaukwu unless they were prepared to align with his political camp.
He reportedly declared that the local government was “cordoned off” and threatened to declare anyone who attempted to challenge his political position a persona non grata.
The chairman also reportedly said politics was his major preoccupation and warned those seeking to frustrate his political interests to stay away.
He was further quoted as describing opponents of Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru as enemies of the state.
Reacting to the remarks, Amnesty International condemned what it described as threatening and inflammatory rhetoric from a public office holder.
The organisation maintained that political disagreement or affiliation with another party does not give any government official the right to prevent citizens from entering a locality or participating in political activities.
Amnesty said attempts to intimidate political opponents could undermine freedom of association, personal liberty and citizens’ ability to participate freely in elections.
The human rights organisation consequently called on the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the allegations and determine whether the comments constituted any criminal offence warranting legal action.
It also appealed to the Ebonyi State Government to take steps to protect political parties, candidates, supporters and voters from intimidation and possible violence as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
Amnesty stressed that Nigerians have the right to choose their political affiliations, support candidates, campaign for parties and vote according to their convictions without fear of harassment or retaliation.
The organisation urged authorities to act proactively to safeguard political freedoms and ensure that the 2027 electoral process is conducted in an atmosphere where citizens can participate without intimidation.