The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has condemned the alleged attack and obstruction of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State.
The party, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said Obi’s convoy was allegedly blocked by suspected thugs who prevented him from gaining access to Yelwata community, where more than 270 people were reportedly killed.
According to the NDC, the group was allegedly led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and was armed with dangerous weapons.
The statement reads “According to reports, the group was allegedly led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr.
Hyacinth Alia. Armed with dangerous weapons, they blocked Mr Obi’s convoy and prevented him from gaining entry into Yelwata community, where over 270 people were reportedly massacred.
“In his own words, Mr. Obi stated: “I arrived in Benue this morning at about 9 a.m. with the intention of visiting the victims and families affected by the horrific killings in Yelwata. Unfortunately, we were stopped from proceeding to the community by thugs chanting, ‘Peter Obi, go back.’
“The NDC finds it deeply troubling and condemnable that a visit intended solely to mourn with grieving families, offer solidarity, and listen to victims about how to prevent future tragedies was obstructed in this manner.
“Mr. Obi further stated: “I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer our solidarity during a moment of unimaginable pain. At a time when our nation should be united in grief and committed to preventing further loss of life, we must avoid actions that deepen divisions.”
“The NDC believes that Benue and all Nigerians deserve to live, sleep peacefully, travel safely, and farm their lands without fear. Above all, they deserve a government that priorities the protection of human life above every other consideration.
“Although access to the community was denied today, the hearts and prayers of the NDC and our presidential candidate remain with the victims, their families, and the entire Yelwata community.
“We will not be deterred. The NDC will persist until we restore the fundamental responsibility of government: the protection of every Nigerian’s life.
“We call on the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately investigate this incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and guarantee the safety of all citizens and leaders who seek to show solidarity in times of grief.”