Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi found his planned journey halted in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, after protesters blocked his convoy on Gboko Road near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport.
The group of demonstrators occupied the key route for several hours, bringing traffic to a standstill and preventing the convoy from advancing.
Also read: 2027: Move on, Obi has decided, NDC tells Datti
Videos circulating from the scene captured some of those present chanting “We don’t want Peter Obi” while the vehicles remained stationary.
Peter Obi had travelled to Benue that morning to offer solidarity to communities affected by recent violent killings, including the troubled Yelwata area. He made clear that the trip was humanitarian rather than political.
Speaking at the scene in a video shared by News Central Television, he alleged that the action had been organised by a government aide.
“I was told that youths, led by an SA to the government, have decided to block the road and make sure I don’t go there,” Peter Obi said.
He described the episode as unacceptable and expressed concern that vulnerable young people were being drawn into political confrontation. “The rascality they are bringing into this country is totally unacceptable. People are being killed every day in Benue.”
The Benue State Government rejected any suggestion of involvement. Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Tersoo Kula, stated that officials had no prior knowledge of the visit and insisted the administration does not engage in such tactics.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed it had monitored Peter Obi’s movements and provided security cover, though officers said the precise motive for the blockade remained under investigation.
The incident adds to a pattern of heightened tension around opposition figures as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
Peter Obi has continued to present himself as a leading opposition voice, while discussions of possible political alliances have drawn growing public attention.
African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore condemned the blockade, arguing that no candidate should face intimidation or obstruction while moving freely across the country.
Also read: 2027: Move on, Obi has decided, NDC tells Datti
For the moment the road has been cleared and inquiries continue. What began as a gesture of solidarity ended in a dramatic confrontation that has left many questioning the climate of political tolerance in the state.
See vide below:
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
