Peter Obi Attacked While Visiting Benue, Vows to Persist

On September 8, 2023, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 elections, attempted to visit Yelwata in Benue to pay condolences to families affected by a recent attack. His convoy arrived at approximately 9 a.m. but was met with a crowd chanting, "Peter Obi, go back." Obi stated that his visit was humanitarian and not politically motivated, expressing distress over the hostility and emphasizing the need for prioritizing human life over political interests.

Despite being unable to enter Yelwata, he expressed his thoughts and prayers for the victims and their families. Moses Paul, a close ally of Obi, corroborated the blockade and alleged that groups were organized to prevent Obi's entry, with claims of individuals in the crowd carrying weapons.

Paul criticized the security agencies for allowing this incident to occur, raising concerns about Nigeria's democratic health. Rabiu Kwankwaso, the NDC's vice presidential candidate, condemned the incident as a threat to democracy.