The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has recounted how alleged hired thugs obstructed his visit to Benue State, where he intended to commiserate with families affected by the horrific killings in Yelwata, in which more than 270 people were reportedly massacred.
Obi disclosed this in a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, describing the chants of “Peter Obi, go back” by the protesters as deeply distressing.
According to the former Anambra State governor, his visit to Benue was strictly humanitarian and had no political motive.
Obi said his visit came a day after he attended the opening of the national campaign office of opposition presidential candidate and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Abuja, which he said was intended to demonstrate that political differences could be managed with mutual respect and civility.
He said he travelled to Benue the following morning and arrived at about 9:00 a.m. with the intention of visiting grieving families, listening to their concerns and offering comfort.
However, Obi alleged that his convoy was prevented from reaching the affected community by thugs chanting, “Peter Obi, go back.”
He described the incident as alarming, particularly at a time when Nigerians should be united in mourning the victims and working to prevent further bloodshed.
Obi stressed that Nigerians deserve to live, travel and farm without fear, adding that the protection of human life should remain the government’s foremost responsibility.
Although he was unable to reach the community, the NDC presidential candidate said his thoughts and prayers remained with the victims, their families and the people of Yelwata.
He also pledged to continue advocating for the restoration of the government’s responsibility to safeguard the lives of Nigerians.
“The people of Benue – and all Nigerians – deserve to sleep without fear. They deserve to travel without fear. They deserve to cultivate their land without fear,” Obi said.While calling on government to prioritise the protection of human life.
