, Peter Obi, took a dramatic turn after he alleged that youths had blocked the){kind=link}
By Abdullahi Inuwa
A visit to Benue State by the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, took a dramatic turn after he alleged that youths had blocked the road to stop him from entering the area.
Obi, who is in the state to sympathise with families affected by recent terrorist attacks, said he was informed that the youths were allegedly mobilised by a Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor.
The former Anambra State governor said he had remained at the location for some time, hoping the protesters would reconsider their action and allow him to proceed with his visit.
According to Obi, his mission to Benue was primarily to extend condolences to families who, he said, had lost more than 200 loved ones in recent attacks.
He expressed concern that political disagreements should not overshadow the plight of communities battling insecurity, hunger and poverty.
“We cannot continue like this,” Obi said, stressing that the priority should be to create opportunities for citizens to earn a living and escape poverty.
The NDC candidate argued that tackling insecurity and poverty requires collective action rather than confrontation, insisting that his visit was intended to support grieving families and understand the challenges confronting residents.
The incident has sparked fresh debate over political tolerance and the treatment of opposition figures during visits to different states, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify.
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s leaders must put the welfare and security of citizens above political interests, saying creating jobs and economic opportunities remains central to addressing the hardship confronting Nigerians.
#PoliticsToday
About The Author
