In the lead-up to the 2027 elections, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), was obstructed by a group of youths in Benue State while attempting to visit the Yelewata community. This visit was meant to offer condolences to victims of a violent attack that occurred in June 2025.
Obi arrived in Makurdi early in the day and was on his way to Yelewata when he encountered a blockade on the Makurdi-Gboko Road, just two kilometers from the airport. The youths, expressing their opposition, shouted slogans demanding his departure and engaged in violent behavior, including throwing stones.
Despite the presence of security personnel, Obi’s team chose to turn back, with Obi later describing the encounter as troubling and extraordinary. He expressed disappointment, emphasizing his intent to show solidarity with those affected by the community’s suffering.
Speaking to the media, Obi reiterated his aim to address pressing national issues such as insecurity and poverty. He criticized the growing violence in political engagements and appealed to security agencies to ensure peaceful campaign activities across Nigeria.
Obi also lamented the lost economic potential of Benue, a state known for its agricultural capabilities, that has been marred by violence and lack of opportunities for its youth. He urged political leaders across the nation to focus their campaigns on meaningful discourse rather than confrontations.
In a subsequent response, the Benue State government distanced itself from the incident, stating it was unaware of Obi’s visit and claimed that formal communication regarding such a visit should have been made. Officials dismissed allegations of thuggery associated with the state government and reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order.
The incident highlights the increasingly charged political atmosphere as the 2027 elections draw closer, raising questions about the safety of political figures and the role of local youth in such rivalries.
