The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has arrived in Jos, the Plateau State capital, hours after leaving Benue State, where his convoy was reportedly blocked by youths suspected to be political thugs.
The incident occurred at Gyado Villa along Gboko Road, as Obi was on his way to Yelewata to visit families of victims of the June 2025 massacre.
Obi condemned the incident, urging the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, DSS, and other security agencies to intervene and call state governors to order.
He warned that the growing insecurity surrounding political activities could provoke retaliation from supporters of opposition politicians if authorities fail to provide adequate protection.
Obi said political campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections should focus on issues affecting Nigerians, including insecurity, hunger, killings and poverty.
He stressed the need for unity, love and justice, saying political actors should engage in issue-based campaigns rather than confrontation.
The incident has continued to generate reactions, with human rights activist Omoyele Sowore warning those behind the attack that they were “toying with fire.”
Similarly, Obi’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election, Rabi’u Kwankwaso, called on the international community to provide protection for opposition leaders amid what he described as growing threats to political actors.
The Benue incident has further heightened concerns over the safety of political figures and the conduct of political activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
