Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, and the Benue State Government have exchanged accusations over the disruption of the former Anambra State governor’s planned visit to Yelwata community.
Obi had travelled to Benue State to commiserate with families affected by the Yelwata massacre of June 13–14, 2025, but his convoy was stopped on Tuesday by youths who barricaded a major road in Makurdi.
The presidential candidate alleged that suspected hired thugs, allegedly acting on the instructions of a government aide, were responsible for blocking his movement to the community.
The state government, however, rejected the allegation, saying it had no involvement in the incident.
According to the government, Obi failed to comply with the required protocol by formally notifying the state authorities of his visit. It accused him of attempting to turn the incident into a political controversy.
The confrontation reportedly occurred along Gboko Road, close to the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport, where the youths barricaded the road and chanted, “We don’t want Peter Obi.”
The development occurred despite confirmation from the Benue State Police Command that it was aware of Obi’s visit and had deployed personnel to provide security for his movement.
The police said it was investigating the circumstances surrounding the youths’ action and the decision to stop the presidential candidate’s convoy.
The Yelwata massacre, which occurred between June 13 and June 14, 2025, had left several people dead and triggered widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over insecurity in Benue State.
