Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, was reportedly prevented from proceeding with his visit to Makurdi, Benue State, on Tuesday after protesters blocked Gboko Road.
The demonstrators reportedly barricaded the road around the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport, chanting “We don’t want Peter Obi” as his convoy was held up for several hours.
A video shared by News Central Television on its X page showed Obi speaking at the scene while the road remained blocked.
Obi said he had travelled to Benue to visit communities affected by recent killings and offer condolences to victims, but claimed his movement was stopped after youths were mobilised to prevent him from continuing.
“I was told that youths, led by an SA (Special Assistant) to the government, have decided to block the road and make sure I don’t go there,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor condemned the development and accused those behind the protest of using young people facing economic hardship and insecurity for political purposes.
He described the situation as unacceptable, particularly against the backdrop of recurring killings in Benue.
“The rascality they are bringing into this country is totally unacceptable. People are being killed every day in Benue,” he said.
Obi also argued that the youths involved in the blockade were themselves affected by poverty and insecurity and should instead be supported with opportunities to improve their livelihoods.
“These youths are being used to do this. What they are doing now will take its revenge on them. They don’t know that. And unfortunately, somebody sits in office and allows this to happen,” he said.
He further maintained that his visit had been known to the state authorities beforehand and was not a secret.
“Everybody is aware I’m visiting this place today. It’s not a secret to them,” Obi said.
The incident disrupted movement along the affected section of Gboko Road as Obi’s convoy remained unable to proceed.
Obi’s visit was linked to his stated intention to condole with victims and communities affected by killings in Benue, although the circumstances surrounding the protest and the allegation that a government aide directed the blockade remain claims made by the presidential candidate.