Shocked and bewildered Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi has condemned the blockade of his entry into Benue State on Tuesday by political thugs as most worrisome.
The thugs, allegedly led by an aide of the State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia barricaded the road and prevented Obi from visiting communities recently attacked by terrorists in the state.
How hired thugs prevented Peter Obi’s entry into Benue State._ Explaining the situation, Obi posted on his X handle, “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, where over 270 people were reportedly massacred. Unfortunately, we were stopped from proceeding to the community by thugs chanting, “Peter Obi, go back.”
“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.
“It is most worrisome that a visit meant solely to show solidarity, support, and compassion, and to hear from the victims and their families about how we can prevent such tragedies in future, could be obstructed in this manner,” the former governor of Anambra state said.
Obi lamented further: “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.
“Benue and the Nigerian people deserve to sleep peacefully, travel safely, and farm their lands without fear.
“Above all, they deserve to live in a country where the government prioritises the protection of human life above every political consideration.
“Although we could not reach the community today, our hearts and prayers remain with the victims, their families, and the entire Yelwata community.”
The NDC flagbearer in a defiant mode said: “We will persist until we restore the fundamental responsibility of government: the protection of every Nigerian’s life.
“Until then, we cannot truly say that we have built the Nigeria we deserve. A New Nigeria Is Possible! and will come with OK,” he concluded.
