The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticised the alleged obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his planned visit to Yelwata community in Benue State.
The party said Obi travelled to the community to meet families affected by the recent killings and offer support to residents. However, it alleged that suspected thugs stopped his convoy before he could reach Yelwata.
According to the NDC, the incident occurred on Tuesday as Obi attempted to enter the community, where more than 270 people were reportedly killed in recent violence.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, made the allegations in a statement. He claimed that the group responsible for blocking the convoy was led by an aide to Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
The NDC described the reported incident as disturbing. It said Obi’s visit was not organised as a political campaign but as an opportunity to stand with victims of the violence.
The party explained that Obi wanted to mourn with bereaved families and hear directly from people affected by the killings. It also said he intended to express solidarity with residents facing insecurity.
The development follows another reported incident involving Obi’s convoy in Benue State.
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Obi Explains Reason for Visit
According to the statement, Obi arrived in Benue at approximately 9 a.m. with plans to visit Yelwata and meet victims of the violence.
The former Anambra State governor reportedly said his primary objective was to sympathise with families who had lost relatives. He maintained that his visit was motivated by concern for affected communities rather than political interests.
Obi said his convoy was prevented from continuing to Yelwata after some individuals allegedly blocked the road while chanting, “Peter Obi, go back.”
The NDC said the incident was particularly troubling because the visit was meant to provide comfort to people dealing with the aftermath of deadly attacks.
The party said political differences should not prevent leaders from visiting communities affected by violence. It argued that Nigerians should be able to move freely and express solidarity with victims regardless of their political affiliations.
The NDC also stressed the importance of allowing public figures and community leaders to reach affected areas safely.
Its position comes amid renewed concerns about insecurity and attacks in several parts of Nigeria.
The party said the situation in Benue requires urgent attention from authorities, particularly because many residents depend on farming for their livelihoods.
Party Calls for Investigation
The NDC called on the Benue State Government and security agencies to investigate the alleged obstruction of Obi’s convoy.
It urged authorities to identify those involved and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The party also called for appropriate action if the allegations are established.
According to the NDC, residents deserve protection from violence, while people visiting affected communities should also be able to travel without intimidation.
The party said Nigerians should be able to live peacefully, move around their communities and cultivate their farms without constantly fearing attacks.
It further urged security agencies to strengthen protection for communities affected by violence. The NDC said authorities must also ensure that political leaders and other visitors can safely access areas where they intend to provide assistance.
The party maintained that security should remain a responsibility of government regardless of political affiliation.
The controversy surrounding Obi’s visit comes as political activities and discussions continue ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Another recent report also highlighted Obi’s movement to a violence-affected community, where he planned to meet residents and victims.
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NDC Says It Will Stand With Victims
Despite the alleged obstruction, the NDC said its commitment to victims of the Yelwata killings remained unchanged.
The party expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones and residents affected by the violence. It also extended its thoughts and prayers to the wider Yelwata community.
The NDC said the inability to reach the community would not prevent it from continuing to advocate for improved security across Nigeria.
It maintained that protecting human lives must remain a priority for every level of government.
The party also called for greater attention to communities that have experienced repeated attacks. It said residents should receive adequate protection and support after violent incidents.
Beyond Benue, the NDC’s call comes against the backdrop of wider security concerns across the country.
Other recent reports have also focused on incidents involving vulnerable Nigerians and the need for stronger security responses.
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The party said Nigerians should not have to fear for their lives while travelling, farming or carrying out their daily activities.
It therefore urged authorities to take the reported obstruction seriously and provide clear answers about what happened during Obi’s attempted visit to Yelwata.
Wider Political and Security Concerns
The incident has also added to ongoing conversations about political activities and security in Nigeria.
The NDC argued that peaceful engagement with communities should not be treated as a threat. It said political leaders should be free to visit communities, particularly when their purpose is to sympathise with victims of violence.
The party further urged political actors to avoid actions that could deepen tensions or create unnecessary divisions among Nigerians.
It said the country needs cooperation and responsible leadership as communities continue to deal with insecurity.
The NDC’s comments also come at a time when Nigerian sports authorities are facing their own institutional challenges.
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According to the party, public institutions must continue to work toward protecting citizens and maintaining confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system.
It said government authorities should investigate allegations of misconduct whenever they arise rather than allowing controversies to escalate.
The NDC maintained that the safety of Nigerians must remain above political interests.
NDC Reaffirms Commitment
The party concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting victims of violence and advocating for stronger protection of communities.
It said the reported incident would not change its position on the need for peaceful engagement with Nigerians affected by insecurity.
The NDC also urged citizens to remain hopeful while calling on authorities to take decisive steps to prevent further attacks.
It said families who lost loved ones deserve justice, support and protection from future violence.
The party reiterated that Nigerians should be able to live and work without fear. It also stressed that farmers should be able to access their lands without worrying about attacks.
The NDC said it would continue to speak out on security issues and demand greater accountability from those responsible for protecting citizens.
The party’s statement comes as political figures continue to make public commitments on security, jobs and economic development ahead of the 2027 elections.
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For now, attention remains on the allegations surrounding Obi’s attempted visit to Yelwata and whether the Benue State Government or security agencies will respond to the NDC’s demand for an investigation.
The party said that regardless of the circumstances, its thoughts remain with the victims, their families and residents of Yelwata.
The NDC maintained that protecting lives must remain the central responsibility of government and security institutions.
It said Nigerians deserve an environment where they can travel freely, farm safely and receive political leaders without fear or intimidation.
