The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned the alleged attack and obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State.
The party, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director Esq., said Obi was prevented from entering Yelwata community, where hundreds of people were reportedly killed in a recent attack.
According to the NDC, suspected thugs allegedly blocked Obi’s convoy and chanted, “Peter Obi, go back,” as he attempted to access the community to visit victims and bereaved families.
The party further alleged that the group was led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
The NDC described the incident as “shameful” and said it was disturbing that a visit intended to express sympathy to families affected by the killings could be obstructed.
According to a statement attributed to Obi, he arrived in Benue at about 9 a.m. with the intention of visiting the victims and families affected by the killings in Yelwata.
“I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer our solidarity during a moment of unimaginable pain,” Obi was quoted as saying.
He said the country needed unity and a collective commitment to preventing further loss of lives, rather than actions capable of deepening existing divisions.
The NDC said the people of Benue and Nigerians across the country deserved to live, travel and farm without fear, stressing that the protection of human life should remain the primary responsibility of government.
Although Obi was reportedly unable to gain access to Yelwata, the party said his visit demonstrated solidarity with the victims, their families and the wider community.
The NDC also called on the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to investigate the alleged obstruction, identify those responsible and ensure that appropriate action is taken.
It further urged authorities to guarantee the safety of citizens and public figures who visit communities affected by violence to express sympathy and assess the situation.
The party said it would continue to demand greater protection for Nigerians and accountability for attacks against communities affected by insecurity.
The allegations contained in the NDC statement could not, in the statement provided, be independently verified, including the claim concerning the alleged involvement of a Benue State Government aide.
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