Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo has expressed disapproval over the blockade of National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi during his campaign visit to Benue State. Obi’s trip, scheduled to offer support to victims of past violence in the region, was interrupted when angry youths obstructed his convoy on the Makurdi-Gboko federal highway.
Upon arriving in Makurdi, Obi intended to visit the Yelewata community, where he planned to console families affected by the June 2025 attacks. However, he encountered a roadblock just a few meters from the airport. This obstruction halted traffic and posed challenges to his planned visit as law enforcement agencies seemed ineffective in addressing the situation.
In a statement reflecting on the incident, Obi criticized the actions of the youths, urging young Nigerians to refrain from being manipulated by the ruling class. He emphasized the need for a safe environment for political activities, stating, “It is unacceptable; we cannot go on this way.” Obi also appealed for intervention from the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies.
Keyamo weighed in on the controversy, condemning the blockade and asserting that such actions should not exist within Nigeria’s democracy, regardless of their underlying causes. He urged political fairness, noting that political expressions should be made through voting rather than violence.
In response to Obi’s claims, the Benue State Government, represented by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, denied any involvement in the blockade, labeling Obi’s accusations as unfounded. The government stated that its administration is committed to maintaining peace and rule of law without resorting to violence.
