Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, was prevented from proceeding with his visit to Benue State on Tuesday after protesters barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi, the state capital, stopping his convoy from accessing the area.
The protesters, who gathered near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport, chanted “We don’t want Peter Obi” as they blocked the road for several hours, disrupting movement and delaying Obi’s scheduled activities in the state.
Obi, who spoke in a video shared by News Central Television on its X page, stated that he travelled to Benue to sympathise with victims of killings in the state but was unable to continue because of the blockade.
“I was told that youths, led by an SA (Special Assistant) to the government, have decided to block the road and make sure I don’t go there,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor described the incident as unacceptable, arguing that the youths involved were being used for political purposes while facing economic hardship and insecurity.
“The rascality they are bringing into this country is totally unacceptable. People are being killed every day in Benue. People want to show that they are with them, and I came here all the way this morning, a long distance, only to be told what you are seeing here,” he stated.
Obi maintained that his visit was known to relevant authorities and was not carried out secretly, adding that the disruption could have been avoided.
“Everybody is aware I’m visiting this place today. It’s not a secret to them,” he stated.
The presidential candidate also argued that the youths involved in the protest were victims of the same economic challenges affecting many Nigerians and should be supported rather than mobilised to prevent public engagements.
“These youths are being used to do this. What they are doing now will take its revenge on them. They don’t know that. And unfortunately, somebody sits in office and allows this to happen,” Obi stated.
The incident comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition figures increasing engagements across different states.
Benue has remained a focal point of national attention due to recurring security challenges, including attacks and killings that have affected several communities in the state.
Obi’s visit was aimed at expressing solidarity with affected residents, but the blockade prevented him from completing his planned movement within Makurdi.
