The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has condemned the obstruction of the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday.
The group described the incident as a worrying development ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging political actors to ensure that Nigerians can participate in the electoral process without intimidation or fear.
In a statement released in Kaduna on Wednesday, NOSCEF chairman, Sunday Oibe, said the incident was “highly disturbing and a dangerous development ahead of the 2027 general elections”.
Obi’s convoy was blocked by suspected thugs along Gboko Road as he attempted to access the state. Videos posted on X by Esther Umoh, the candidate’s photographer, showed a group of people pursuing the convoy.
Obi said his visit was not campaign-related but was intended to enable him sympathise with victims of the 2025 Yelewata massacre.
The Benue State Government, however, said it had no prior knowledge of the visit and rejected the allegations surrounding the incident, describing Obi’s claims as “lies” intended to damage the reputation of Governor Hyacinth Alia. The government has separately denied involvement in the blockade. (Channels Television)
‘POLITICS IS NOT A WAR’
Reacting to the development, Oibe said political disagreements should not undermine democratic freedoms.
“democracy is not madness and politics is not a war”.
He said, “the 2027 elections must be an opportunity for Nigerians to freely choose their leaders, without fear, intimidation and suppression.”
The NOSCEF chairman said the incident would represent an attack on democratic principles if investigations establish that those responsible acted on the directive of the state governor, as alleged.
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“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.”
Oibe warned that growing political intolerance could create an environment where opposition politicians and their supporters feel unsafe.
“Democracy thrives on the freedom to move, associate, campaign, express opinions and visit communities without intimidation or obstruction,” Oibe said.
He also linked the incident to concerns over the possible establishment of state police, warning that such a security structure could be vulnerable to political abuse.
“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 appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter, citing the President’s historical involvement in Nigeria’s struggle for democratic governance.