Tension as Thugs Block Peter Obi From Visiting Yelwata Massacre Victims in Benue

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has alleged that some youths described as “hired thugs” blocked his convoy from reaching Yelwata in Benue State, where he planned to visit families affected by the June 2025 massacre.

‎Obi, in a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday, said he arrived in Benue at about 9:00 a.m. for what he described as a humanitarian visit but was prevented from proceeding to the community.

‎According to him, the convoy was stopped by youths chanting, “Peter Obi, go back.”

Obi said his visit was intended to commiserate with families who lost loved ones in the Yelwata killings and offer support to the affected community.

He expressed concern over the incident, stressing that the government’s primary responsibility should be the protection of lives and property, regardless of political affiliation.

‎However, the Benue State Government said it was unaware of Obi’s visit.

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‎‎The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Kula Tersoo, said the state government was not informed of the former Anambra governor’s arrival or planned movement to Yelwata.

‎He added that proper notification would have enabled the relevant security agencies in the state to make adequate arrangements for the visit.

Meanwhile, the NDC governorship candidate in Benue State, Prof. Terhemba Shija, said security agencies had been informed about Obi’s visit and had deployed personnel to accompany his convoy.

‎The Benue State Police Command also confirmed that it was aware of Obi’s movement to Yelwata and that its operatives provided security for the convoy.

‎The command’s spokesperson, DSP Peter Aondongu, said the reason the convoy was blocked by some youths had not been established.

‎He said the police were monitoring the situation and investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

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‎The command promised to provide further updates as more information becomes available.‎‎