Nigerian opposition candidate’s convoy denied access

Nigerian opposition politician Peter Obi said his convoy was prevented from visiting a community in Benue State on Tuesday as campaigning intensifies ahead of the presidential election.

Nigeria is due to hold its presidential election on January 16, with Obi among the opposition candidates challenging incumbent President Bola Tinubu.

Police in Benue confirmed to local media that Obi’s convoy was “blocked by some youths” and said an investigation had been launched.

The incident occurred in Yelwata, a community in Benue’s volatile Middle Belt region where more than 150 people were killed last year.

Obi said in a post on X that his convoy was stopped by people chanting, “Peter Obi, go back”. He said the visit was intended to show solidarity with families who lost relatives in the violence, listen to their concerns and offer comfort.

His office alleged that those who obstructed the convoy were armed with dangerous weapons. Obi said presidential candidates should be free to move around during the campaign period and called the incident unacceptable.

The incident comes as political parties increase campaign activities ahead of the election, with security and access to communities remaining sensitive issues in parts of Nigeria affected by violence.

Police have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

SOURCE: AFP