By Ugochukwu Alaribe
UMUAHIA — The Association of Igbo Town Unions, ASITU, has condemned the reported attack on the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Coalition, NDC, Peter Obi, in Benue State, warning that such incidents could signal the possibility of violence during the 2027 general elections.
Obi’s convoy was reportedly attacked by a group of youths on the Makurdi-Gboko road while he was travelling to Yelwata to sympathise with victims of recent attacks in the community.
ASITU also alleged that Obi had previously come under attack during a visit to Benin City, Edo State.
The association warned that repeated attacks on political candidates could create a dangerous atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections and urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further incidents.
National President of ASITU, Chief Emeka Diwe, stated this in an interview with Vanguard, expressing concern over the reported Benue incident, particularly because Obi was in the state to visit victims of the attacks in Yelwata.
The group called on the Federal and Benue State governments to investigate the incident and ensure that those found responsible were brought to justice.
ASITU said: “The attacks on the presidential candidate of the NDC, Mr Peter Obi, have become too many. He was attacked in Benin City and now in Benue State.
“The attack in Benue State is shocking because Obi was only in the state to sympathise with victims of terror attacks in Yelwata.
“We warn that these attacks are looming signals that the 2027 general elections may be marred by violence. Nigerians should be free to campaign in any part of the country.
“Some state governors have threatened Obi against visiting their states, yet the security agencies have done nothing over the threats. The Benue State government should ensure that this incident is investigated.”
The association also called on the Federal Government to step up efforts to identify and prosecute those allegedly sponsoring attacks on political figures.
“Today, it is Mr Peter Obi; tomorrow, it may be another candidate or a high-ranking Nigerian. These are also signs that no part of the country is safe as we get to the 2027 elections.
“The Tinubu administration must do something about these attacks before it is too late,” the group said.
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