Peter Obi Faces Thug Attack During Benue State Visit

On 14 September 2026, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), encountered hostility during a solidarity visit to Benue State, where he aimed to support communities affected by the 2025 Yelwata killings. His convoy was blocked by suspected thugs wielding weapons, but his security team managed to prevent violence.

Obi did not retaliate and chose to leave the state. Observers speculated that the Benue State Government, led by Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, may have sponsored the attack, a claim the government denied, stating it was unaware of Obi's visit.

This incident follows a pattern of intimidation, as in April 2025, Obi was barred from visiting Benue by Alia, who cited security concerns. Similarly, in July 2025, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo warned Obi against visiting without prior approval.

Despite these challenges, Obi continued to engage politically, including a visit to Edo State in February 2026.