Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has condemned the reported blockade of Peter Obi’s convoy during his visit to Benue State.
Kwankwaso described the incident as a setback for democratic values and called on the Benue State Government to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The former Kano State governor made the call in a post on his official X account on Tuesday.
According to Kwankwaso, the alleged mobilisation of youths to prevent Obi from proceeding into Makurdi was unacceptable and raised concerns about political tolerance ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kwankwaso said freedom of movement is guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution and should apply to Obi as a former governor and opposition presidential candidate.
He urged the Benue State Government to ensure the safety and unrestricted movement of Obi and members of his entourage while in the state.
The NDC vice-presidential candidate also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to caution state governors, particularly those belonging to the ruling party, against actions that could undermine democratic processes.
Kwankwaso further urged diplomatic missions, international organisations and election observation groups to pay attention to the incident and encourage Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect political freedoms.
Obi was reportedly stopped while travelling through Makurdi on his way to Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area.
The youths allegedly barricaded Gboko Road near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport, chanting opposition to Obi’s presence.
The blockade reportedly caused traffic congestion and prevented the convoy from continuing its journey for several hours.
Obi eventually abandoned the trip and returned to Jos, Plateau State.
Speaking at the scene, Obi said he had travelled to Benue to sympathise with families affected by killings in the state.
The former Anambra State governor alleged that the youths had been mobilised to prevent him from reaching his destination and claimed the action was linked to a government aide.
Obi described the development as unacceptable and criticised the alleged use of young people in political confrontations.
He argued that youths already facing poverty and insecurity should not be used to obstruct political opponents.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed that it was aware of Obi’s movement and had deployed officers to provide security for the visit.
However, the police said the reason the youths blocked the convoy was not immediately known.
The command said it was investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The development has generated reactions from political figures and organisations, with calls for an investigation into who organised the blockade and why Obi was prevented from continuing his journey.
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The incident comes as political parties and candidates intensify their activities ahead of the 2027 general election.
Obi is one of the leading opposition figures seeking the presidency, while Kwankwaso is also part of the NDC political structure.
The blockade has consequently sparked renewed debate over political tolerance, freedom of movement and the conduct of opposition activities as parties prepare for the next general election.
Kwankwaso’s call for accountability adds to growing demands from political actors for security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that political candidates can conduct lawful activities without intimidation or obstruction.
