Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the reported attack on presidential candidate Peter Obi, after his convoy was allegedly prevented from reaching families affected by the Yelwata killings in Benue State.
Atiku described the incident as unacceptable and anti-democratic, calling on authorities to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the confrontation and hold those responsible accountable.
In a statement posted on X on Wednesday by his official spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, Atiku said Obi was prevented from reaching bereaved families in Yelwata who had been affected by persistent attacks in the community.
“Atiku Abubakar strongly condemns the violent attack on Peter Obi, who was brutally prevented from reaching bereaved families of Yelwata, Benue State, to offer his condolences over the persistent terrorist attacks on them,” the statement said.
Atiku described the incident as “unacceptable, anti-democratic, and deeply shameful.”
He also urged the authorities to ensure the safety and freedom of political leaders to move around the country and carry out their legitimate activities without intimidation.
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“He calls on the authorities to investigate urgently, hold those responsible accountable, and ensure the safety and freedom of all leaders to carry out their duties without intimidation,” the statement added.
Obi had travelled to Benue on Tuesday and was scheduled to visit Yelwata, where families were affected by deadly attacks in June 2025.
However, his convoy reportedly encountered a roadblock mounted by youths along the Makurdi-Gboko highway, preventing him from proceeding to the community.
The incident has generated controversy, with Obi and his political associates alleging that the protesters were sponsored, while the Benue State Government has denied involvement.
The state government said it was not officially aware of Obi’s visit and had not authorised anyone to prevent him from moving within Benue. It also said an investigation was underway to determine what happened.
The Benue State Police Command has similarly said it was aware of Obi’s movement and had provided security for his visit, while noting that the reason for the youths’ action remained unclear.
Atiku’s reaction adds to growing political concern over the incident as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.