Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, on Tuesday alleged that “hired thugs” blocked his convoy from reaching Yelwata, Benue State, where he had gone to visit victims of a deadly attack.
Obi said he arrived in Benue at about 9am for what he described as a humanitarian visit to families affected by the killings.
In a post on X, the former Anambra State governor alleged that the group stopped his convoy and chanted, “Peter Obi, go back.”
Obi said the incident was distressing, insisting that his visit was not politically motivated.
He said he had travelled to the affected community to mourn with families who lost loved ones, listen to survivors and offer solidarity.
Although he could not reach Yelwata, Obi said his thoughts and prayers remained with the victims and their families.
He said the incident underscored the need for Nigerians to put politics aside when lives had been lost.
Obi also called for stronger action to protect citizens, saying Nigerians should be able to travel, farm and live without fear.
He pledged to continue advocating for the government to fulfil its responsibility of protecting lives and property.
“A New Nigeria is Possible,” he said.