The Benue State Police Command has taken 46 suspects into custody following a high-profile security breach that disrupted the movement of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi along the Makurdi-Gboko federal highway.
Addressing reporters at a press briefing in Makurdi on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu confirmed that the suspects were apprehended in a series of swift, intelligence-led operations across the state capital. The command receives formal notification of Mr. Obi’s scheduled visit on Monday, September 7 (5:30 PM) to commiserate with families affected by the Yelwata crisis.
Security details, including three escort vehicles led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police is deployed. Shortly after landing at Makurdi airport on Tuesday, September 8 (9:00 AM), Mr. Obi’s convoy encounters a major roadblock near the Air Force Base on Gboko Road. Men carrying sticks and other objects block the route, shouting chants demanding the politician turn back.
To prevent potential bloodshed, security teams make a tactical withdrawal, safely escorting Mr. Obi back to the airport for departure without casualties. Undercover personnel are immediately assigned to trace the perpetrators. The police command parades 46 arrested suspects on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, and confirms ongoing operations to track down additional ringleaders.
CP Cletus Nwadiogbu (Benue Police Chief), Clarified that the initial restraint shown by officers was a deliberate strategy to preserve life rather than inaction. He emphasized that the police force remains politically neutral and will enforce the constitutional right to freedom of movement for all citizens. Peter Obi expressed deep concern over the incident, calling the blockade unacceptable and urging young Nigerians not to let themselves be weaponised by political interests.
Tersoo Kula (Chief Press Secretary to Gov. Hyacinth Alia), refuted claims that the Benue State Government was involved in the disruption, suggesting the incident may have stemmed from internal party disputes within the NDC. Investigations remain active as police work to identify any remaining suspects or underlying political motives.
