The Igbo Renaissance Group has strongly condemned the reported blockade and harassment of Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), by suspected hired political thugs during his planned humanitarian visit to Benue State on Tuesday morning, September 8, 2026.
The incident occurred around 9:00 AM as Obi’s convoy attempted to proceed to Yelwata community in Benue State to commiserate with families affected by horrific local massacres.
According to eyewitnesses and reports from the NDC, a group of armed individuals, allegedly led by an aide to Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, blocked the access road, brandishing dangerous weapons and chanting “Peter Obi, go back”.
The blockade forced the presidential candidate’s delegation to turn back, preventing him from meeting with the victims’ families.
Reacting to the development, the Igbo Renaissance Group issued a firm press statement calling out the state leadership and demanding immediate accountability. A spokesperson for the group, Chief Chinedu Nsofor, characterized the incident as a dangerous precedent and a complete abuse of political power.
”Governor Hyacinth Alia must understand that the office of governor is greater than partisan politics. It is an office of service, compassion, and responsibility,” Nsofor stated.
“If the reports concerning the obstruction of Mr. Obi’s visit are correct, Governor Alia owes Nigerians, the victims of the Benue killings, and, most importantly, Peter Obi a public explanation and an unreserved apology within 24 hours.”
The group further urged the Benue State government to launch an immediate investigation and relieve any official or political aide involved in mobilizing the blockade of their duties.
In a parallel statement issued on Tuesday, the NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, reiterated the party’s dismay, emphasizing that Obi’s trip was strictly non-partisan and aimed at offering grief support to traumatized citizens.
“I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer our solidarity during a moment of unimaginable pain,” Obi said in a statement issued following the obstruction.
While the Benue State Police Command through its spokesperson, DSP Peter Aondongu, confirmed awareness of the trip and noted police operatives were present, they maintained that investigations are ongoing to determine the identity and motives of the youths who mounted the roadblock.
