Makinde Condemns Thugs Blocking Peter Obi in Benue

On September 8, 2026, Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), condemned the blockade of Peter Obi's convoy in Benue State. Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), was prevented from entering Makurdi by thugs while en route to Yelwata to visit families affected by recent killings.

Makinde accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using intimidation and harassment against opposition politicians in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. He stated that the incident was particularly disturbing as it occurred shortly after Obi attended the inauguration of the Makinde/Daura Presidential Campaign Office.

Makinde rejected the Benue Government's claim that Obi had not notified them of his visit, asserting that no Nigerian requires prior permission for legitimate activities. He called for a full investigation by the Nigeria Police Force into the incident and emphasized that such actions have no place in a constitutional democracy.