KWANKWASO SLAMS BLOCKADE OF OBI’S CONVOY, DEMANDS ACTION AGAINST PERPETRATORS

Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has condemned the disruption of Peter Obi’s convoy in Benue State, describing the incident as a serious threat to democratic freedoms. Kwankwaso reacted after protesters reportedly barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi, preventing Obi and members of his entourage from proceeding into the state capital. He called on the Benue State Government to identify those responsible and ensure that they face the law.

Kwankwaso described the incident as a “dark day” for Nigerian democracy, arguing that every citizen is constitutionally entitled to freedom of movement. He said the right was particularly important in the case of Obi, whom he described as a former governor and prominent opposition figure. He therefore urged the Benue authorities to guarantee Obi’s safety and ensure that he and his entourage are allowed to move freely without intimidation or obstruction.

The former Kano State governor also called on President Bola Tinubu to caution state governors, particularly those belonging to the ruling All Progressives Congress, against actions that could undermine democratic principles. He further appealed to diplomatic missions and international election-monitoring organisations to take note of the development and encourage Nigerian authorities to protect opposition figures and uphold the rule of law ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi was reportedly travelling to Benue to sympathise with victims of recent killings in the state when his convoy encountered the protesters. The demonstrators, who chanted that they did not want Obi, reportedly blocked the road near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport for several hours, causing significant traffic disruption. Obi later said he was informed that a government aide had ordered the blockade and criticised the alleged use of young people for political purposes.

The incident has added to growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition figures increasingly calling for stronger protection of political freedoms and equal access to communities across the country. Kwankwaso maintained that political disagreements should not translate into restrictions on movement or intimidation, urging authorities to investigate the incident and take appropriate action against anyone found responsible.