Police speak on Peter Obi ‘s convoy blockage in Benue

The Benue state Police command has confirmed that some youths blocked the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, along the Gboko-Makurdi expressway in Makurdi on Tuesday.

The command, however, said the reason for the blockade remained unknown, adding that investigations had commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Orchia Aondongu, said police operatives provided security for Obi’s movement to Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of the state.

Aondongu said, “We can confirm that the Police are aware of the incident involving Peter Obi’s movement to Yelwata. Police operatives provided security for the movement.

“The reason the convoy was blocked by some youths is still unknown. We are monitoring the situation and investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Further updates will be provided accordingly.”

NDC accuses APC of mobilising youths

The Benue State NDC Publicity Secretary, Agile Bem Ordedoo, accused the All Progressives Congress of mobilising the youths to stop Obi from entering Yelwata.

Ordedoo alleged that thousands of youths were mobilised to prevent Obi from reaching the community, where he planned to offer condolences and present relief materials to victims.

APC denies involvement

However, the APC denied the allegation, saying it had no knowledge of the incident and would not be involved in thuggery.

The Benue State APC Publicity Secretary, Benedict Yaweh, said the party was unaware of the reported attack and suggested that if an attack occurred, it could have involved aggrieved supporters rather than APC members.

The police have not attributed the incident to any political party or individual, stressing that investigations are ongoing.

The June 13, 2025 attack on Yelwata claimed scores of lives and displaced residents, drawing widespread condemnation and renewed calls for improved security in Benue State.

Obi’s planned visit was aimed at commiserating with affected communities, but the reported blockade prevented him from reaching Yelwata as scheduled.

The police command said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.