By Omoyeni Ojeifo
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has condemned the attack on the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Benue State, describing it as an invitation to anarchy.
PerSecondNews recalls that Obi’s convoy was blocked on the Makurdi-Gboko highway on Tuesday, September 8, while he was travelling to Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area to visit families affected by the June 2025 killings.
The incident occurred despite the notification of the police about the visit, with the police later announcing the arrest of 46 suspects in connection with the obstruction
IPAC, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Egbeola Wale Martins, noted that Obi had notified the police of his planned visit to Yelwata before embarking on the journey.
The council described the incident as political intolerance against a presidential candidate and former Anambra governor who was on a condolence visit to the affected community.
“IPAC denounces this political intolerance against a presidential candidate and former governor of Anambra State on a condolence visit to Yelwata. Restricting a citizen from entering a state is a flagrant violation of the 1999 Constitution as amended,” it said.
“Benue State is already bleeding over constant terrorists’ attacks, sponsoring youths to block and attack Obi’s convoy is a misplaced aggression and height of rascality. It is unacceptable.”
IPAC commended the efforts of the Nigerian police Force, on the arrest of 46 suspects and called for a wider investigation into the circumstances surrounding the obstruction of Obi’s convoy.
“We urge them to thoroughly investigate the incident to ascertain the remote and immediate causes, identify all the perpetrators and their sponsors to face justice,” it stated.
The council’s position comes after the Benue Police Command announced the arrests following the obstruction of Obi’s convoy along the Makurdi-Gboko route. The police said the investigation into the incident was ongoing.
IPAC also reaffirmed its commitment to democratic participation, saying political candidates and citizens should be able to participate freely in the electoral process without intimidation or obstruction.