The NDC has condemned the purported obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State, where he aimed to sympathize with families affected by the 2025 killings in Yelwata.
On Tuesday, the party stated that suspected hired thugs allegedly blocked Obi’s convoy, preventing him from reaching the community, which reportedly lost over 270 residents.
The NDC claimed the group was led by an aide to Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia and accused them of wielding dangerous weapons.
This allegation follows Obi’s statement that his convoy was stopped by youths chanting, “Peter Obi, go back,” as he traveled to Yelwata.
Obi explained he arrived in Benue around 9 a.m. for a humanitarian mission to mourn victims, meet grieving families, and provide support.
“I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, listen to families who have lost loved ones, and show our solidarity during a time of great pain,” Obi stated.
The NDC called the incident unacceptable, asserting that residents and Nigerians should be free to live, travel, and farm without fear.
The party urged the Benue State Government and security agencies to investigate, identify those responsible, and ensure the safety of visitors and political figures.
It also emphasized that the incident would not deter Obi or the party from engaging with communities affected by violence.
The Benue State Government denied involvement, stating it does not use, patronize, or deploy thugs for governance or security purposes.
The government questioned whether Obi properly informed security authorities before his visit.
The conflicting reports raise questions about who organized the blockade and the circumstances leading to Obi’s aborted visit to Yelwata.
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