The controversy surrounding the reported blockade of Peter Obi’s convoy in Benue State has taken another turn, as the state Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, has explained what happened before the presidential candidate was stopped from reaching Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area.
Obi was in Benue as part of a planned visit to sympathise with residents and families affected by deadly attacks in the area. However, his convoy was reportedly blocked by youths along the Makurdi-Gboko Federal Highway.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Lunch Time Politics, Nwadiogbu said the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) had informed the police command about Obi’s planned visit so that adequate security arrangements could be made.
According to the commissioner, representatives of the party visited his office after initially contacting the command through the Police Public Relations Officer.
He explained that the police received the notification as a security matter and were not instructed to forward the letter personally to Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Nwadiogbu said the command’s primary responsibility was to ensure the safety of Obi and his entourage during their movement within the state.
Why Police Did Not Force Their Way Through
The commissioner also addressed questions surrounding why security personnel did not immediately clear the road when the crowd blocked Obi’s convoy.
He said the officers had to exercise caution to avoid escalating the situation and potentially causing casualties or damage to property.
According to him, the decision was based on the need to prevent the situation from turning more violent.
Obi was eventually escorted back to the airport and subsequently left Benue State.
The police have since arrested 46 people allegedly linked to the incident, while investigations are continuing to determine the circumstances surrounding the blockade and whether other individuals were involved.
Political Reactions Intensify
The incident has triggered strong reactions from political groups and organisations across the country.
The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) condemned the development, describing the reported restriction of Obi’s movement as unacceptable ahead of the 2027 general elections.
IPAC argued that citizens should be able to move freely and participate in political activities without intimidation.
The council also welcomed the arrest of the 46 suspects and urged the police to investigate beyond the arrests to determine what led to the incident and whether the action was organised or sponsored.
Labour Party Demands Investigation
The Labour Party also condemned the incident and called on President Bola Tinubu to address concerns surrounding political activities and the conduct of political actors.
The party alleged that the youths involved could have been sponsored by the Benue State Government, but presented the claim as an allegation requiring investigation.
The party stressed that Nigerians should be able to participate in political activities without fear of harassment or violence.
Traders Speak Out
The South East Amalgamated Markets Traders Association (SEMATA) also expressed concern over the incident.
In a statement signed by its President-General, Chief Emeka Emechebe, and Secretary-General, Chief Chima Eruchalu, the association warned that incidents of this nature could increase political tension ahead of the 2027 elections.
SEMATA urged Nigerian youths not to allow themselves to be used for political violence.
The association maintained that political affiliation should not determine whether a presidential candidate can move freely, meet Nigerians or engage with communities across the country.
As investigations continue, attention is now focused on what exactly triggered the confrontation in Benue and whether further arrests or revelations will emerge from the police probe.
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