Obi attack backlash: Nothing must happen to our son– Igbo leaders, others
By Steve Oko, Emmanuel Iheaka, and Jeff Agbodo
BENUE STATE, Nigeria — A reported attack on the convoy of Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has sparked renewed concerns among Igbo leaders and socio-cultural organizations in the South-East. They have emphasized the need for the former governor of Anambra State to remain safe amid rising political tensions.
Leaders warned that any further aggression against Obi could exacerbate an already unstable political environment, potentially igniting reactions that would worsen Nigeria’s political crisis as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.
The incident, which occurred during Obi’s visit to Benue State to express condolences to victims of recent violence in Yelwata, saw his convoy reportedly obstructed by local youths. This blockage prevented Obi from accessing the affected communities.
Accounts regarding the event remain conflicting. While Obi’s supporters described it as a deliberate attack on the candidate, the Benue State Government has denied any involvement in orchestrating the blockade. The police have announced they are conducting an investigation, with reports indicating that 46 individuals were arrested in connection with the incident.
As the political landscape intensifies ahead of the 2027 elections, supporters of Obi have expressed growing concern over his vulnerability to physical confrontations and threats. This incident recalls a similar confrontation that occurred earlier this year in Benin City, Edo State, where Obi and other opposition figures allegedly faced an attack.
Former Minister of Health and Education, Professor Ihechukwu Madubuike, condemned the Benue incident, labeling it as “barbaric” and “unprecedented.” He underscored the dangerous implications such acts could have for Nigeria’s democracy, urging that political disagreements should not escalate into violence or intimidation.
Senator Adolphus Wabara, a former Senate President and current chairman of the Board of Trustees of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), also condemned the blockade. He described it not only as an assault on Obi but as an infringement on the democratic rights of countless Nigerians. Wabara insisted that political differences must be settled through dialogue rather than coercion, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.
The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) linked Obi’s treatment to his ethnic background, noting that he is the only leading presidential candidate of Igbo descent. ASITU President Chief Emeka Diwe remarked that the continuing attacks on Obi raise alarming questions about the political climate leading up to the 2027 elections.
As calls for accountability grow, various groups, including the Igbo Renaissance Group, have demanded an apology from Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia for his administration’s role in these events. They urged immediate action against any officials implicated in the obstruction of Obi’s visit.
Meanwhile, the Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF) criticized Governor Alia for his response to Obi’s presence, accusing him of behaving irresponsibly and failing to address the broader security concerns facing the state.
As investigations proceed and tensions rise, many are watching to see how this incident will impact the political landscape as the 2027 elections draw near.
