The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned what it described as the “shameful” attack and obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, by suspected hired thugs in Benue State on Tuesday.
The party made this known in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, on Tuesday.
The NDC alleged that the group was led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
It further alleged that the group, armed with dangerous weapons, blocked Obi’s convoy and prevented him from entering Yelwata community, where more than 270 people were killed in 2025.
Obi said: “I arrived in Benue this morning at about 9 a.m. with the intention of visiting the victims and families affected by the horrific killings in Yelwata. Unfortunately, we were stopped from proceeding to the community by thugs chanting, ‘Peter Obi, go back.’”
The NDC said it found it deeply troubling and condemnable that a visit intended solely to mourn with grieving families, offer solidarity and hear from victims about ways to prevent future tragedies was obstructed.
Obi added: “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. At a time when our nation should be united in grief and committed to preventing further loss of life, we must avoid actions that deepen divisions.”
The NDC said Benue residents and Nigerians deserved to live and sleep peacefully, travel safely and farm their lands without fear. Above all, it said, they deserved a government that prioritised the protection of human life above every other consideration.
“Although access to the community was denied today, the hearts and prayers of the NDC and our Presidential Candidate remain with the victims, their families, and the entire Yelwata community.
“We will not be deterred. The NDC will persist until we restore the fundamental responsibility of government: the protection of every Nigerian’s life.
“We call on the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately investigate this incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and guarantee the safety of all citizens and leaders who seek to show solidarity in times of grief,” the party said.
