Trending 
Supporters of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, have reported that his visit to Benue State was obstructed after individuals described as sponsored thugs allegedly blocked access routes on Tuesday morning.
The incident reportedly occurred as Obi visited the state as part of his wider engagements focused on national challenges, including insecurity, unemployment, and social welfare concerns. Photos from the scene showed dusty roads, stationary vehicles, and a crowd gathered.
The development followed earlier warnings from state authorities regarding restrictions on unapproved high-profile visits to internally displaced persons’ (IDP) camps. However, Obi’s supporters argued that such restrictions should not prevent citizens or political figures from exercising their constitutional rights.
Members of the Obidient movement expressed frustration over the incident, criticising Governor Hyacinth Alia and questioning whether the action aligned with the right to freedom of movement. They said Obi’s visit was part of efforts to engage communities affected by insecurity and economic hardship, adding that political leaders should be allowed to interact with Nigerians across the country.
The Benue State Government has not issued an official statement on the reported obstruction.
The incident has added to ongoing debates about political movements, access to displaced communities, and opposition figures’ rights to hold public engagements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
