By Lizzy Chirkpi
Social commentator and businessman, Isaac Fayose, has condemned the obstruction of the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Benue State.
Fayose, in a video circulating on social media, expressed disappointment over the action of youths who reportedly blocked Obi’s convoy, questioning why a Nigerian citizen and presidential candidate should be prevented from moving freely within the country.
“I’m highly disappointed in Peter Obi; you are a Nigerian, you have the right to travel anywhere,” Fayose said while reacting to the incident.
He was reacting to the confrontation that occurred on Tuesday when Obi travelled to Benue State to visit Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area, where more than 270 people were reportedly killed in an attack in June 2025.
Obi arrived in Makurdi at about 9 a.m. and was heading towards Yelwata when youths reportedly blocked the Makurdi-Gboko Road, chanting, “Peter Obi, go back.”
The confrontation reportedly occurred less than two kilometres from the airport. Some of the youths were said to be carrying sticks and throwing stones, prompting Obi and members of his team to turn back to avoid further escalation.
Obi subsequently left the state without visiting the community.
Reacting to the incident, the NDC presidential candidate described the development as “ridiculous and very, very worrisome”, saying he travelled to Benue to condole with families affected by the killings and offer support to victims.
In a statement issued after the incident, Obi said his visit was not for campaign purposes but was intended to demonstrate solidarity with the grieving community.
He said his convoy was prevented from proceeding by people chanting, “Peter Obi, go back,” describing the incident as distressing.
“I came to Benue not for partisan politics, but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer comfort at a moment of unimaginable sorrow,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor also warned against actions capable of deepening political and social divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to him, Nigerians deserve to live, travel and cultivate their land without fear, while the primary responsibility of government is to protect human lives above political considerations.
The NDC also condemned the incident, alleging that an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, was involved in leading the group that obstructed Obi’s convoy. The allegation has not been independently verified.
The Benue State Government, however, denied preventing Obi from visiting the state, saying it was not aware of his visit.
The incident has continued to generate reactions, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Fayose’s intervention comes amid his long-standing public support for Obi. He has previously described himself as a supporter of the former Anambra governor and has remained vocal on political and national issues.