NDC Claims Benue Government Plans to Disrupt Obi’s Visit, Officials Deny Allegations

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the Benue State Government of trying to disrupt the visit of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The visit is scheduled for Wednesday, where Obi will hold a town hall meeting in Makurdi and pay respects to victims of a massacre in Yelewata.

Terhemba Shija, the NDC’s governorship candidate in Benue State, addressed reporters in Makurdi. He urged the state government and security agencies to ensure the safety of Obi and his supporters during the visit. Shija claimed that the government had previously issued threats to prevent Obi from visiting Yelewata.

Shija stated that the party had informed the government and security agencies about the visit and had made all necessary arrangements. He emphasized that the NDC does not need permission from the state government for its political activities but chose to notify them for a peaceful visit.

Obi’s visit is described as both humanitarian and political. He plans to lay a wreath at a memorial for the victims of the Yelewata massacre and meet with their families, but he will not visit any government facilities or camps for displaced persons. The town hall meeting is set to take place at the Mission House in Makurdi.

In response, the Benue State Government denied the allegations, calling them false and mischievous. Solomon Iorpev, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, stated that the government welcomes all visitors, including political figures. He urged the NDC not to exploit the tragedy for political gain and reminded them to ensure their supporters act peacefully.

This disagreement arises as political activities ramp up ahead of the 2027 general elections. Obi has faced disruptions during past visits to Benue, including incidents in April 2025 and September 2026, where he was blocked from visiting communities.