Tensions Rise in Benue Over Planned Peter Obi Visit

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has publicly accused the Benue State government of orchestrating a plot to disrupt the scheduled visit of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The visit, slated for Wednesday, includes a town hall meeting in Makurdi and a humanitarian tribute to victims of the June 2025 Yelewata massacre.

The Allegations

Terhemba Shija, the NDC governorship candidate in Benue, addressed the media in Makurdi on Tuesday, asserting that the party had formally notified both the state government and relevant security agencies of the visit. Shija alleged that the state government has issued threats to prevent Obi from reaching Yelewata, characterizing the move as an attempt to stifle political opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Shija, the NDC has provided a detailed itinerary to security officials to ensure a peaceful process. He emphasized that while the party does not require government permission to conduct political activities, they chose to provide notification as a courtesy to maintain order. Shija stated, “The Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, will not yield to any blackmail or intimidation.”

Government Response

The Benue State government has dismissed the NDC’s claims as “false, baseless and mischievous.” In a statement, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Solomon Iorpev, affirmed that the state remains committed to hospitality and that all Nigerians are free to move within its borders.

The government further cautioned the NDC against politicizing the Yelewata tragedy. The statement read, “No one should turn that grief into a political stage, and no one should use a visit meant to console the bereaved as material for a publicity campaign.” The government also issued a warning that security agencies would deal firmly with any individuals attempting to incite disorder, regardless of their political affiliation.

Context of Previous Disruptions

The current dispute occurs against a backdrop of previous logistical and security challenges faced by Obi in the state. According to reports, Obi’s efforts to visit Benue have faced significant obstacles in the past:

• April 2025: The administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia reportedly halted a planned visit to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, citing security and protocol concerns.
• September 8, 2026: Obi’s convoy was blocked on Gboko Road by individuals who allegedly chanted slogans and forced the candidate to turn back. Police subsequently arrested 46 suspects in connection with the incident.

While the state government previously argued that those disruptions were due to a failure to follow proper security protocols, opposition figures have consistently maintained that the blockades were politically motivated. Despite these incidents, Obi has successfully conducted political activities in the state in the past, including during his 2023 presidential campaign.

Conclusion

As the scheduled date for the visit approaches, the situation remains tense. While the NDC insists the visit will proceed peacefully, the state government maintains its stance that it has no interest in obstructing visitors. The outcome of Wednesday’s events will likely be viewed as a significant test of the political climate in Benue as the nation moves toward the 2027 election cycle.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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