NOSCEF has condemned the obstruction of Peter Obi’s convoy in Benue, warning that political intolerance could threaten free and peaceful 2027 elections.
The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has condemned the obstruction of the convoy of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in Benue State on Tuesday.
In a statement issued in Kaduna on Wednesday, NOSCEF chairman Sunday Oibe described the incident as “highly disturbing and a dangerous development ahead of the 2027 general elections.” Oibe said Nigerians must be allowed to freely elect their leaders in the 2027 elections without intimidation.
What Happened
Suspected thugs blocked Obi’s convoy on the Gboko-Makurdi road, near the Nigerian Air Force base in Makurdi, as he attempted to travel to Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area. In a series of videos shared on X by Esther Umoh, Obi’s photographer, a mob was seen chasing the NDC presidential candidate’s convoy, with reports of chanting and confrontation around the vehicles. Police confirmed the obstruction, said security personnel were providing protection to the former Anambra governor, and that an investigation was underway; the blockade also disrupted the highway for other road users.
The former governor said he had travelled to the state not for campaign purposes but to sympathise with victims of the 2025 Yelwata massacre, and alleged that the youths responsible had been mobilised by a special assistant to the Benue State Government.
The Benue government denied having prior knowledge of the visit, describing Obi’s claims as “lies” aimed at tarnishing the image of Governor Hyacinth Alia. The state government said it did not patronise thugs and expected proper coordination with security agencies ahead of political visits. Police have since paraded 46 suspects in connection with the blockade, though responsibility for organising the obstruction remains formally unestablished.
‘Politics Is Not a War’
While expressing reservations about the incident, the NOSCEF chairman said, “democracy is not madness and politics is not a war.”
“The 2027 elections must be an opportunity for Nigerians to freely choose their leaders, without fear, intimidation and suppression,” he said.
Oibe argued that the incident would amount to an assault on democracy if the perpetrators truly acted on the instructions of the state governor, as alleged.
“Nigeria is a civilised and democratic nation, and the people of Benue State are traditionally known as peaceful, hospitable and welcoming people,” the statement reads. “
The alleged deployment of thugs or other unofficial forces to obstruct a political figure from moving freely within the country is frightening and sends a dangerous signal ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
He added that the conduct being attributed to Alia and those allegedly acting on his behalf did not represent the character of the northern people NOSCEF represents.
Warning on Political Intolerance and State Police
Oibe warned that such “political intolerance” could create an atmosphere in which opposition politicians and their supporters feel threatened.
“Democracy thrives on the freedom to move, associate, campaign, express opinions and visit communities without intimidation or obstruction,” he said.
He noted that the incident reinforces concerns that the proposed state police, if established, could be abused by politicians against opposition figures.
“A security architecture that can be manipulated against political opponents would be a nightmare for democracy and a serious threat to peaceful political competition,” he added.
Oibe called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, given his historical involvement in Nigeria’s struggle for democratic governance, and urged him to call Governor Alia to order. He also appealed to youths in Benue not to allow themselves to be used for political intimidation or violence.
“Politicians will eventually leave office, but the consequences of actions taken in their name can remain with individuals and communities for generations. No political ambition is worth destroying the good name and reputation of Benue State,” the group said.
Other Opposition Figures React
NOSCEF was not alone in condemning the incident. Obi’s running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, warned that attempts to restrict the movement of opposition figures could push the country towards anarchy, while African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore condemned violence, intimidation and political thuggery more broadly. The NDC has demanded a full investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.
