The Incident

Suspected thugs barricaded Gboko Road near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport, stopping Obi’s convoy from entering the state capital. While Obi clarified that his visit was for humanitarian purposes to condole with victims of recent violence rather than political campaigning, protesters blocked the route chanting anti-Obi slogans. Reports indicate local police have opened an investigation into the blockade.

Key Takeaways from Sowore’s Statement

• Allegations of State Involvement: Sowore described the incident as a “state-sponsored blockade” and accused agents linked to the Benue State government and the federal administration of orchestrated “political brigandage”.
• Defense of Democratic Freedom: He emphasized that no politician or political candidate should face violence, intimidation, or thuggery when moving freely across Nigeria.
• Warning to Orchestrators: Warning those involved to halt such actions immediately, he stated that those behind the “cowardly attacks are toying with fire and threatening the democratic rights of all Nigerians”.

The Benue State Government and the Benue State Police Command both issued official statements following the blockade of Peter Obi’s convoy along the Gboko–Makurdi Expressway.

Benue State Government Response

Through Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula, the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia strongly denied any involvement and dismissed the allegations made against the government:

• Outright Denial: The state government described Obi’s claims of government-sponsored thuggery as “unfounded,” stating that Governor Alia’s administration does not deploy thugs or use them as tools of governance.
• Party Politics Allegation: Kula suggested the incident might be rooted in internal political issues or disagreements within Obi’s party structure in Benue, urging him not to shift those issues onto the state government.
• Protocol & Security Questions: The government questioned whether proper security protocols were followed, noting it was unusual for a high-profile figure to travel into the state without formally notifying the Commissioner of Police or relevant security agencies to coordinate protection.

Benue State Police Command Response

The police command, via Public Relations Officer DSP Peter Orchia Aondongu, confirmed the incident and outlined their position:

• Confirmation of Blockade: Police confirmed that a group of youths blocked Obi’s convoy while he was traveling toward Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area.
• Active Investigation: The command stated that the exact motives behind the blockade remain unknown and that an investigation has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the disruption.
• Security Presence: The police noted that operatives were deployed on the ground to provide security during Obi’s movement and intervened to prevent the situation from escalating into further violence.