By Emmanuel Angulu
MAKURDI, Benue State — The Benue State Government has rejected allegations by presidential candidate Peter Obi that “thugs” working for the state blocked his convoy on the Makurdi–Gboko federal highway while he was travelling to Yelewata to console families affected by the 2025 attacks.
The state government, in a formal statement, described Obi’s account as unfounded and alleged that the claim was intended to drag Governor Hyacinth Alia and the Benue State Government into what it characterised as an internal political dispute within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
In the statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Benue authorities said they had no role in the alleged roadblock and cautioned the public against giving credence to what they called an attempt to manufacture controversy.
Obi’s Allegation: Convoy Blocked by “Thugs” on Federal Highway
Obi had told journalists in Makurdi that his convoy was halted by youths who mounted a roadblock on the highway. He said his mission was humanitarian—travelling to Yelewata to show solidarity with families affected by killings reportedly involving over 270 persons.
According to Obi, the blockade was accompanied by chants demanding his return, including: “Peter Obi go back!” He said he did not attempt to force the convoy through the restriction, citing concerns that such an action could worsen tensions and endanger other people.
He appealed directly to Nigeria’s security leadership—calling on the Inspector-General of Police and other agencies to intervene, stating: “This rascality cannot be allowed.”
Benue Govt’s Response: Denial, Rebuttal, and Questions Over Obi’s Security Coordination
Benue authorities dismissed the allegation, saying the claim was designed to mislead the public and cast the Alia administration in an unfavourable light.
The government stated it was “emphatically” denying that the Alia administration had any knowledge of what Obi described. It further challenged the narrative by raising questions about whether Obi’s visit to Makurdi on the Tuesday in question was properly communicated to security institutions.
Benue claimed that a high-profile political movement by a presidential candidate would ordinarily involve formal security coordination, including engagement with the Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies.
“Even if Mr. Obi posed any security concern,” the government argued, “recognised security agencies, rather than thugs, would be responsible for handling such a situation.”
Alia Administration: No Patronage of “Thugs,” Focus on Peace and Rule of Law
The state government insisted that Governor Alia’s administration operates on the principles of peace and the rule of law, adding that it does not “engage, patronize, or deploy thugs as instruments of governance or security.”
Benue said the administration relies on established security structures to maintain order across the state, and therefore urged citizens to disregard insinuations linking it to any violence or intimidation against political figures.
Government Accuses Obi of Diverting Internal Party Issues to State Authorities
Beyond denial, the statement suggested Obi’s claims could be rooted in internal challenges within the NDC’s Benue structures, arguing that such disputes should be resolved within the party rather than being “conveniently transferred” to the state government.
Benue warned it would not be distracted by what it described as attempts to produce political controversies, reiterating that its priorities remain good governance, security, and the welfare of Benue residents.
Investigation Angle: Pattern of Similar Claims and Reactions
The incident also follows a development from last year, when Benue authorities reportedly barred Obi from visiting internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state without express approval.
That prior episode has intensified scrutiny over how political movements intersect with security coordination and access arrangements for communities affected by violence in Benue.
Call for Calm Ahead of 2027 Elections
Earlier, Obi had used the moment to reiterate his call for a non-violent campaign ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging young Nigerians not to be used as instruments by powerful political actors.
As Benue State and Peter Obi trade competing narratives over the alleged roadblock in Yelewata-bound travel, the matter highlights continuing tensions around security coordination, political access, and accountability in conflict-affected communities. While Obi insists his convoy was stopped by hostile actors, Benue authorities maintain the government had no involvement and accuse Obi of advancing claims that may stem from internal party disputes.
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