By Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo
In a democratic society, no individual, regardless of political stature, has the authority to dictate who may or may not campaign in any part of the country. The recent statement attributed to the Speaker of Plateau state *Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil* purportedly warning opposition parties not to bother campaigning in Plateau State is not only deeply troubling, but also dangerously undemocratic.
Nigeria is not a one-party state. Our constitution guarantees the right of every political party, and indeed every Nigerian, to freely move, assemble, express opinions, and participate in the political process anywhere in the country. To suggest that opposition parties should “not bother” campaigning in Plateau is an affront to the very principles upon which Nigeria’s democracy is built.
Plateau State belongs to all Nigerians. Its people are not political hostages of any single party or political actor. They have the right to hear from all political contenders, to weigh their visions, and to make informed choices. Attempting to shut out opposition voices does not demonstrate strength it reveals fear, desperation, and a troubling disregard for democratic norms.
Rather than issue exclusionary ultimatums, leaders should focus on engaging the public with ideas, policies, and plans. Leadership is not about silencing others it is about rising above the noise with substance. If a party believes it has the people’s mandate, it should welcome competition, not suppress it.
We must never allow any part of Nigeria to descend into a political no-go zone. That would be a betrayal of everything our democracy stands for. We must condemn such rhetoric for what it is: divisive, regressive, and harmful to national unity.
Democracy thrives on pluralism, on debate, and on the power of the people to decide. Any attempt to curtail this whether through threats, intimidation, or arrogant proclamations must be met with firm resistance from all citizens who value freedom, fairness, and the rule of law.
Plateau State is not a conquered territory. It is a vibrant, diverse part of our federation. Let the people decide at the ballot box not through the imposed will of self-entitled politicians.
Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo– BOS
