A political visit by the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, to Benue State was reportedly disrupted on Tuesday after suspected thugs allegedly blocked a major route along which his convoy was travelling.
The incident was brought to public attention by Obi’s media aide, Esther Umoh, who claimed that the obstruction occurred shortly after the former Anambra State governor arrived in the state with members of his entourage.
According to Umoh, the road blockade happened along Boko Road, near the Nigerian Air Force Base, allegedly in an attempt to stop Obi and his team from proceeding into the state.
She shared a video on X purportedly showing the obstruction and accused the individuals involved of deliberately targeting the presidential candidate’s movement.
“We have just arrived in Benue State, where alleged sponsored thugs have blocked Boko Road by the Air Force Base, attempting to prevent Peter Obi from gaining access into the state,” Umoh wrote.
Alleged Attack on Obi’s Entourage
The media aide later released another video which appeared to show several individuals running behind vehicles believed to be part of Obi’s convoy.
Umoh alleged that the individuals were pursuing the convoy and attempting to attack members of the presidential candidate’s entourage.
However, the claims of sponsorship, the identities of those involved and the circumstances surrounding the reported obstruction had not been independently established at the time of the report.
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The development comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major presidential contenders beginning to strengthen their structures and engage supporters across the country.
Obi Eyes 2027 Presidency
Obi, who represented the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, is seeking another shot at the presidency in 2027 under the NDC.
The former Anambra governor is expected to face incumbent President Bola Tinubu and other major contenders as political parties and alliances take shape ahead of the election.
The alleged incident in Benue has added another layer to the increasingly heated political atmosphere surrounding the 2027 race.