The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has called for an investigation into the alleged blockage of the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi during his visit to Benue State on Tuesday.
The party urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to investigate the incident and identify those responsible.
APM described the incident as an attempt by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to intimidate opposition politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party alleged that suspected state-sponsored thugs stopped Obi’s convoy while he was on his way to Yelwata to visit families affected by the deadly attack on the community.
Armed herders attacked Yelwata on June 13, 2026, killing and injuring residents. An anniversary report on the attack said more than 271 people were killed.
APM’s reaction was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Anthony Ehilebo, Special Adviser on Media and Communication to APM presidential candidate, Governor Seyi Makinde.
Ehilebo described the incident as “deeply disturbing and totally unacceptable.”
He linked the incident to recent political developments, noting that it happened less than 24 hours after Obi joined opposition leaders in showing support for Makinde at the opening of the Makinde/Daura Presidential Campaign Office in Abuja on Monday.
Ehilebo accused the APC of using intimidation and harassment to frustrate opposition activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party also rejected the Benue State Government’s claim that Obi did not obtain prior permission before visiting the state.
Ehilebo referred to Sections 41(1) and 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect freedom of movement and the right to peaceful assembly and association.
“Every Nigerian, presidential candidate or otherwise, has a constitutionally guaranteed right to enter, live and move freely within any state in Nigeria to conduct legitimate activities without prior permission or notice,” he said.
He added that “setting up roadblocks and engaging thugs to stop opposition candidates have no place in a constitutional democracy.”
APM asked the police to investigate the incident and prosecute anyone found responsible.
The party also said it remained committed to peaceful elections and would not allow intimidation to stop political participation.
