By Daniel Aondoaseer Zendesha

MAKURDI, BENUE — The convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, was reportedly blocked along Gboko Road near the Nigerian Air Force Base in Benue State on Tuesday morning.

The incident occurred shortly after Obi and members of his entourage arrived in the state, according to reports and videos shared online by his media aide, Esther Umoh.

Umoh alleged that a group of people had blocked Gboko Road in an attempt to prevent Obi from proceeding further into the state. She described those involved as sponsored thugs.

However, the allegation that the group was sponsored, including any claim linking them to the Benue State Government, had not been independently established as of the time of publication.

Videos circulating from the scene appeared to show a crowd gathered along the road, with some individuals carrying what appeared to be sticks and other objects. In another video, vehicles believed to be part of Obi’s convoy could be seen turning away from the area while people moved behind them.

Reports also indicated that police personnel were present at the scene as the situation unfolded. The circumstances surrounding the security response were not immediately clear.

Why Obi was in Benue

Obi's visit was reportedly connected to a planned condolence and solidarity visit to communities affected by the Yelewata killings.

Speaking after the incident, Obi said he was in Benue to sympathise with families who had lost loved ones and not to campaign.

He also expressed concern about the state of political tolerance in Nigeria, arguing that political differences should not prevent people from showing compassion to communities affected by violence.

The visit comes against the backdrop of increasing political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, making the circumstances surrounding Obi's movement particularly sensitive.