African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has condemned the reported blockade of Peter Obi’s convoy during the former Anambra State governor’s visit to Benue State.
Sowore described the incident as an alleged sponsored action against Obi, who was reportedly travelling into Makurdi, the state capital.
Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, was said to be heading to Yelewata to visit families affected by the deadly attacks that occurred in the community in June 2025 when his convoy was stopped by youths at Gyado Villa along the Gboko Road.
The development reportedly forced Obi to turn back and return to Abuja.
Sowore criticised the incident, arguing that political differences should not be used to prevent opposition figures from moving freely or carrying out engagements with communities.
The controversy has generated fresh political reactions as parties and opposition figures intensify activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Benue State Government said it was not aware of Obi’s visit, while an aide to Governor Hyacinth Alia said the government had not been formally informed about the trip.
Police authorities, however, reportedly confirmed that they had been notified of the visit and that security personnel, including police and Department of State Services operatives, were deployed.
The incident has renewed discussions about political tolerance, security and freedom of movement as Nigeria enters a more active phase of preparations for the 2027 elections.
