Picture: Chief Emeka Emechebe
By Toby Chuks
The South East Amalgamated Markets Traders Association (SEMATA), the umbrella body of traders’ associations across the five states of the South-East, has condemned the reported disruption of the movement of presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi in Benue State.
The association described the incident as unacceptable and capable of undermining peaceful democratic engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
SEMATA, whose members of South-East extraction conduct business across the 36 states of the federation and in the diaspora, expressed concern over what it described as an alleged attempt to obstruct the candidate’s movement and peaceful political engagement.
The association made its position known in a statement signed by its President-General, Chief Emeka Emechebe, and Secretary-General, Chief Chima Eruchalu, after an emergency executive meeting held in Onitsha on Thursday, September 10, 2026.
SEMATA warned that incidents involving political supporters and opponents could escalate if not properly addressed, explaining the need for all political actors, supporters and citizens to respect the constitutional rights of candidates participating in the 2027 elections.
According to the association, irrespective of political affiliation, every presidential candidate should be allowed to move freely, campaign and interact peacefully with citizens without intimidation or obstruction.
The statement said: “Whether they were recklessly advised or sponsored, never again should there be a repeat of this violation of the inalienable right to freedom of movement and peaceful assembly of all candidates of all political parties legitimately contesting the 2027 presidential elections, irrespective of his or her political party.
This constitutionally guaranteed right of the candidates must be respected.”
SEMATA, however, commended the security personnel involved for what it described as their professional handling of the situation.
The association also praised Obi for what it called his humility and exemplary civility during the incident, particularly as reports indicated that his convoy was blocked and some vehicles in the convoy were hit by stones.
SEMATA further cautioned youths in Benue State and across the country against acts capable of escalating political tension, stressing that no individual or group should regard itself as having a monopoly over violence.
It said it would neither condone nor support acts of lawlessness, adding that it would continue to pursue lawful and legitimate means of promoting peace, stability and the rule of law.
The association said Nigeria had a long democratic tradition that should be protected from acts capable of creating unnecessary tension ahead of the 2027 elections.
It therefore called on the Benue State Police Command to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the reported incident of Tuesday, September 8, 2026, identify those found responsible and ensure that anyone who violated the law is dealt with in accordance with due process.
SEMATA said such action would help strengthen public confidence in the security agencies and serve as a deterrent against similar incidents.
The association also appealed to governments at all levels and non-state actors to ensure that every political candidate is given the opportunity to canvass for votes peacefully, while citizens should be allowed to make their choices freely and according to their conscience.
“Nigeria deserves peace both now, during elections and after elections. No individual or group should be allowed to truncate our democracy,” the association stated.
Tags: #SEMATA #PeterObi #2027Elections #Nigeria
