The Nigeria Democratic Congress has condemned the alleged obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State to sympathise with families affected by the 2025 killings in Yelwata.
The party said Tuesday that suspected hired thugs allegedly blocked Obi’s convoy and prevented him from accessing the community, where more than 270 people were reportedly killed.
The NDC alleged that the group was led by an aide to Benue State Gov. Hyacinth Alia and accused the attackers of carrying dangerous weapons.
The allegation comes a day after Obi said his convoy was stopped by youths chanting, “Peter Obi, go back,” while he was on his way to Yelwata.
Obi said he had arrived in Benue at about 9 a.m. for a humanitarian visit to mourn victims, meet grieving families and offer support.
“I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer our solidarity during a moment of unimaginable pain,” Obi said.
The NDC described the incident as unacceptable, saying Benue residents and Nigerians should be able to live, travel and farm without fear.
The party called on the Benue State Government and security agencies to investigate the incident, identify those responsible and guarantee the safety of citizens and political leaders visiting the state.
It also said the incident would not deter Obi or the party from continuing to engage with communities affected by violence.
The Benue State Government has denied any involvement in the incident, saying it does not engage, patronise or deploy thugs as instruments of governance or security.
The government also questioned whether Obi formally notified the relevant security authorities before travelling to the state.
The conflicting accounts have raised questions over who organised the blockade and the circumstances surrounding Obi’s aborted visit to Yelwata.
Comments
Add a comment