In what appears to be a premeditated clamp down on groups supporting the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, and his running mate, Dr Yusuf Datti, the Federal Government of Nigeria has blocked the Keystone bank account of Take Back Naija: a socio-political movement supporting the presidential bid of the former Governor.
Though, at the time of filing this report, no excuse has been given for the sanction but the spokesman of Take Back Naija, Danjuma Garba Musa in a statement, described the action as an act of political persecution, suppression and intimidation from the powers that be.
Garba while noting that Peter Obi and Yusu Datti are the most credible and competent candidates in the 2023 election, added that it is the constitutional right of the group to support any candidate of their choice.
He however, stated that the latest action by the government will not stop the group from supporting Peter Obi and his running mate, Dr Yusuf Datti in 2023 election.
Part of the statement reads, “TBN Global has been notified that it’s bank account with Keystone bank has been unjustifiably blocked by a government order. We see this development as an act of political persecution, suppression and intimidation from the powers that be to stop the youth driven grassroots movement from carrying out activities protected by the constitution.
“TBN is a socio-political movement and a non-governmental organization made up of well meaning patriotic Nigerians, actively engaged in promoting good governance and democratic ideals in Nigeria. It is our core value support competent and credible candidates during elections leveraging the energy of youths who will determine electoral outcomes at all levels irrespective of the political party. Against the 2023 general elections, TBN Global Leadership had endorsed Mr Peter Obi and his running mate Dr Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed of the Labour Party as the most credible and competent candidates.
“TBN has publicly solicited and equally received donations for the sole purpose of funding grassroots activities to support the Obi-Datti presidential campaign activities. We categorically state that blocking our account or any manner of repression will in no way stop us from supporting the Obi-Datti 2023 mandate.
“It is our constitutional right as citizens of Nigeria to support and promote the candidate(s) of our choice. Therefore, we appeal to the relevant authorities to reconsider this sanctions.
“We also urge members of the public especially our donors to bear with us while we seek redress to unlock our account.”
