Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, has condemned the blockade of the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi in Benue State.
Sowore described the incident as an apparent sponsored blockade and attack on Obi as he attempted to enter Makurdi, the state capital, on Tuesday.
In a statement posted on his X handle, Sowore said no presidential candidate should be prevented from carrying out legitimate political activities through violence, intimidation or thuggery.
He described the incident as political brigandage and warned those behind it against actions that could undermine the democratic rights of Nigerians.
“Those behind these cowardly attacks are toying with fire and threatening the democratic rights of all Nigerians,” Sowore said.
He called on those responsible to desist from such actions, saying political candidates should be allowed to move freely and campaign across the country.
Obi’s convoy was reportedly stopped after protesters barricaded a road near the Nigerian Air Force Base and Makurdi Airport, with videos showing youths chanting against the former Anambra State governor.
Obi said he had travelled to Benue to sympathise with victims of recent killings in the state but was prevented from proceeding to Yelwata.
The Benue State Government, however, said it was not aware of Obi’s visit, while the state police command said it was monitoring the situation and investigating the circumstances surrounding the blockade.
The incident has generated reactions from political figures amid growing preparations for the 2027 general election.