Benue Police Arrest 46 Over Obstruction of Peter Obi’s Movement

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 people in connection with the obstruction of the movement of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, during his visit to the state on Tuesday.

The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this Wednesday at a press conference in Makurdi, saying the arrests followed intelligence-led operations launched immediately after the incident.

Nwadiogbu said the command was informed of Obi’s visit at about 5:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7, and subsequently deployed security personnel to protect him throughout his movement in the state.

“Consequently, adequate security was deployed, including three police escort vehicles with personnel led by an assistant commissioner of police,” the commissioner said.

He said Obi’s movement was later obstructed by a group of people, creating tension and a situation that could have escalated into violence.

“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property,” Nwadiogbu said.

The commissioner said the police subsequently escorted Obi back to the airport, from where he left the state peacefully.

“Let me state clearly that the tactical decision taken by the police should not be mistaken for inaction,” he said.

Nwadiogbu said the command immediately began intelligence-led operations to identify those involved in the incident.

“46 arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident,” he said.

The commissioner also reaffirmed the neutrality of the Benue State Police Command, saying every Nigerian has the right to freedom of movement regardless of political affiliation, status or personal belief.

“The Benue State Police Command remains a neutral and professional institution,” Nwadiogbu said.

He warned that no individual or group has the right to unlawfully obstruct another person’s movement, adding that anyone found culpable would be dealt with according to the law.

Nwadiogbu urged residents to remain calm and allow the police to complete their investigation.