The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has condemned the obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from visiting Yelwata community in Benue State.
The party alleged that suspected thugs blocked Obi’s convoy on Tuesday and prevented him from accessing the community, where more than 270 people were reportedly killed in recent attacks.
In a statement, the NDC claimed the group was led by an aide to Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia.
It said Obi had travelled to the state to mourn with families affected by the killings, offer solidarity and listen to victims.
The party said Obi arrived in Benue at about 9 a.m. and was stopped from proceeding to Yelwata by people chanting, “Peter Obi, go back.”
Obi, according to the statement, said his visit was not politically motivated, but was intended to show support for families who had lost loved ones.
The NDC described the incident as troubling and called on the Benue State Government and security agencies to investigate, identify those responsible and ensure the safety of citizens and leaders visiting communities affected by violence.
However, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alia, Tersoo Kula, has challenged the NDC and Obi to name the alleged aide and provide evidence linking the person to the obstruction.
Speaking on Arise TV’s The Morning Show, Kula said the state government was initially unaware of the incident until pictures of the obstruction began circulating online.
He said if the NDC provides evidence identifying the aide and the person who allegedly directed the obstruction, the police should investigate and anyone found responsible should be brought to book.
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