Chidinma Iroegbu
Opposition leaders have called for an investigation into the reported obstruction of ADC presidential candidate Peter Obi in Benue State, warning that attacks on political candidates could heighten tension ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi was reportedly prevented by suspected thugs from reaching Yelwata, where he had gone to sympathise with families affected by recent killings. The Benue State Government confirmed the incident but said it was not notified of the visit.
Oyo State Governor and APM presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, condemned the development and accused the APC of resorting to intimidation and obstruction against opposition politicians.
Makinde urged the police to investigate the incident and prosecute those responsible, insisting that political candidates must be allowed to move freely across the country. “Setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy,” he said.
ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar also condemned the reported attack through his spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, describing it as “unacceptable, anti-democratic and deeply shameful.” He demanded an investigation and adequate protection for political leaders.
The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) warned that repeated attacks could fuel electoral violence ahead of the 2027 elections. Its National President, Chief Emeka Diwe, said the incidents involving Obi were “looming signals” that authorities should not ignore.
ASITU alleged that Obi had previously been attacked in Benin City, Edo State, and urged the Federal and Benue State governments to identify those behind the incidents and bring them to justice.
Meanwhile, Atiku rejected a call by former APC National Vice Chairman (South-South), Ntufam Hilliard Eta, for the EFCC to investigate him over alleged corruption, describing the demand as a political witch-hunt.
Atiku said successive administrations had investigated him without prosecuting him for corruption, arguing that state institutions should not be used against political opponents. “When an incumbent government begins to feel politically threatened, the institutions of state suddenly become intensely interested in its opponents,” he said.
Meanwhile, APC campaign preparations have reportedly slowed following President Bola Tinubu’s three-week vacation and the absence of National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda. Yilwatda’s aide, Abimbola Toki, however, said the chairman’s two-week break was to “recharge and reflect,” adding that the National Working Committee remained operational and was preparing a retreat ahead of the 2027 elections.