Allegations of Political Brigandage

Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has condemned the alleged blockade and attack on the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Benue State. Sowore warned that such actions constitute a direct threat to the democratic rights of Nigerians and the stability of the nation.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Sowore noted that he had reviewed video evidence showing what appeared to be a state-sponsored disruption of Obi’s activities as he attempted to enter Makurdi, the Benue State capital. He accused agents of the state government and the federal administration of engaging in political brigandage.

I have watched videos showing what appears to be a state-sponsored blockade and attack on NDC presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi as he attempted to enter the state capital to carry out legitimate campaign activities. I strongly condemn these acts of political brigandage by agents of the state government and the Tinubu regime. This is totally unacceptable.

— Omoyele Sowore, Presidential Candidate, African Action Congress

The Blockade at Makurdi

Reports indicate that Peter Obi’s movement was halted on Tuesday after a group of youths barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi. Video footage from the scene showed protesters chanting, “We don’t want Peter Obi,” specifically around the Nigerian Air Force Base and the Makurdi Airport area. The blockade reportedly prevented the convoy from proceeding to its intended destination.

Obi was visiting Benue State to travel to Yelwata, where he intended to condole with victims of recent violence. According to Obi, the disruption was not a spontaneous civilian protest but an organized effort involving government personnel.

I was told that youths, led by an SA (Special Assistant) to the government, have decided to block the road and make sure I don’t go there.

— Peter Obi, Presidential Candidate, Nigeria Democratic Congress

Official Denials and Police Investigation

In response to the allegations, the Benue State Government has distanced itself from the incident, claiming it had no prior knowledge of the visit. Kula Tersoo, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, stated that the administration was not aware of Obi’s arrival in the state and suggested that the involvement of security agents would have made the situation easier to verify.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command confirmed it was aware of Obi’s movement and had provided security personnel for the convoy. However, the command remained cautious regarding the motives behind the civilian interference.

The reason the convoy was blocked by some youths is still unknown. We are monitoring the situation and investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

— DSP Peter Aondongu, Spokesperson, Benue State Police Command

Implications for Democratic Rights

Sowore warned that the trend of preventing political opponents from moving freely across the country could lead to severe consequences for Nigeria’s political landscape. He argued that no candidate should face violence or intimidation while carrying out legitimate political activities, regardless of their location.

As political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the incident has raised significant concerns regarding political tolerance and the safety of opposition figures.

No candidate should be prevented through violence, intimidation or state-sponsored thuggery from campaigning freely anywhere in Nigeria. Those behind these cowardly attacks are toying with fire and threatening the democratic rights of all Nigerians. They must desist immediately before it is too late.

— Omoyele Sowore, Presidential Candidate, African Action Congress