The Benue State Government has denied receiving prior information about the visit of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi to the state, following the reported blockade of his convoy by youths in Makurdi.
Kula Tersoo, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, said the state government was unaware that Obi was coming to Benue and had no involvement in the incident.
“We are not aware of his coming to the state,” Tersoo said, adding that if security agencies had stopped the former Anambra State governor, the state government would have been able to establish what happened.
He also rejected suggestions that government-sponsored thugs were responsible for the obstruction, saying, “Our government doesn’t patronize thugs and in any case Obi is not a threat to the governor.”
Obi was reportedly travelling to Yelwata to meet families affected by the deadly attacks in the area when his convoy was stopped around Gyado Villa along Gboko Road, near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport.
The incident has generated political debate, particularly over whether the visit was properly communicated to state authorities and the circumstances surrounding the roadblock.
The Benue NDC governorship candidate, Terhemba Shija, reportedly said the purpose of Obi’s trip was to pay a condolence visit. He maintained that relevant security agencies, including the police and Department of State Services, were notified and provided security escorts.
The Benue State Police Command also acknowledged awareness of Obi’s movement and said its personnel accompanied the delegation. Police spokesperson Peter Aondongu said the reason for the youths’ action remained unclear and that the incident was under investigation.
The development is significant as it comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 elections and renewed concerns over security in Benue.
Peter Obi, a former Anambra governor, contested the 2023 presidential election and is now seeking to build support ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.
