The Obidient Movement, a support group loyal to the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised alarm over an alleged death threat issued by the Lagos State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Adekunle Mustapha, popularly called Sego. The group in a statement on Friday, urged Nigerians to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that such a threat cannot be overlooked given the history of violence that marred previous polls.
The group’s National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, said the remark, which was captured in a video, contained a direct threat to “kill” anyone who votes against the All Progressives Congress in Lagos during the 2027 elections. He argued that the warning must not be dismissed as mere political rhetoric, recalling that Labour Party supporters in Lagos faced intimidation, physical assault, and in some cases death during the 2023 elections. According to him, the threat points to the possibility of a repeat of violence in future polls if decisive measures are not taken.
Tanko accused the NURTW of straying from its role as a registered trade union into a tool for political intimidation and violence. He noted that the union has, over time, been linked to extortion and thuggery, with politicians allegedly exploiting its members to target opponents. He described this trend as unacceptable and insisted that it must be brought to an end.
In his statement, Tanko called on President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and heads of security agencies, including the Police, DSS, and the Militar,y to immediately arrest and prosecute those behind the threat. He added that the international community must also pay attention and hold Nigerian authorities accountable to ensure the 2027 elections are credible, transparent, and devoid of violence.
The movement cautioned that failure of law enforcement agencies to respond to such threats could push citizens into self-defense, a scenario Tanko warned could drag the country into chaos. He maintained that the Constitution and electoral laws are clear, and that the 2027 elections must not tolerate rigging, manipulation, or political violence.
He urged members of the movement and Nigerians at large to remain calm but alert, to report any intimidation or threat to the authorities, and to resist any form of provocation. Tanko said the Obidient Movement will continue to insist on accountability while working towards a peaceful electoral process that guarantees the right of every citizen to vote freely without fear.
The statement underscores mounting concerns among opposition supporters about security of voters in Lagos and beyond as the nation begins the countdown to the 2027 general elections.
