Suspected thugs have blocked the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi on his arrival in Benue State, North-Central Nigeria.
The NDC presidential candidate’s convoy was reportedly blocked by a stick-wielding mob at Gboko Road while he was trying to get into Makurdi town after landing at the airport.
The State Police Command confirmed that it is aware of the incident involving Peter Obi’s movement to Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State as police operatives provided security for the movement.
A message by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Aondongu disclosed that the reason the convoy was blocked by some youths is still unknown.
He said the police is still monitoring the situation and investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police have promised to provide further updates accordingly.
Meanwhile the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has condemned what it describes as an alleged attack and obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State.
The party is demanding an immediate investigation into the incident and prosecution of those found culpable.
The NDC says Peter Obi’s visit to Benue was aimed at sympathising with victims of the recent killings in Yelwata community.
According to the party, Obi arrived in the state at about 9 a.m. with plans to visit bereaved families and residents affected by the violence.
But the party alleges that his convoy was blocked by suspected thugs armed with dangerous weapons, who allegedly prevented the former Anambra State governor from accessing the community.
The NDC further alleged that the group was led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia.
The party described the incident as shameful and condemnable, particularly because Obi was allegedly prevented from visiting a community where more than 270 people were reportedly killed.
The NDC insists that the visit was not political, but an effort to identify with victims and hear directly from affected residents about measures needed to prevent further bloodshed.
It says preventing political leaders or citizens from visiting communities affected by violence risks deepening divisions at a time Nigerians should be united against insecurity.
The party is therefore calling on the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and prosecute them if found culpable.
The NDC also urged authorities to guarantee the safety of political leaders and other citizens visiting communities affected by violence.
The NDC says it will not be deterred by the incident and will continue to advocate for the protection of lives and restoration of public confidence in government’s ability to safeguard citizens.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
