NLC Reacts to Reported Blockage of Peter Obi’s Convoy in Benue

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the reported blockage of the convoy of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), from entering Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue.

NLC spokesperson, Mr Benson Upah, expressed the concern in a reaction to the incident, describing it as a reflection of growing intolerance towards opposing political views in the country.

Obi had reportedly planned to visit Yelwata to honour victims of a past massacre and sympathise with families affected by the killings, but was allegedly stopped from accessing the community.

“We are alarmed by the rising cases of political violence across the country reflective of intolerance of alternative views. Yet, we run a multi-party democracy. The constitution guarantees this,” Upah said.

He described the growing intolerance as “unhelpful, unnecessary and unacceptable”, warning that political disagreements should not lead to violence or attempts to silence opposing voices.

“Those driving this agenda of intolerance must be halted in their tracks. They have no idea how this democracy was won,” he said.

Upah called on politicians and their supporters to embrace peaceful political engagement and focus on policies and ideas rather than hostility.

“We call on all to eschew violence. Play politics of issues, not crude and unguided partisanship without vision,” the NLC spokesman said.

He stressed that Nigeria’s multi-party system required politicians and citizens to respect divergent opinions and allow all political groups to participate freely.

The NLC’s reaction came amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties and their candidates intensifying campaigns and mobilisation across the country.

Yelwata has previously suffered deadly attacks and has become a major symbol of insecurity, displacement and suffering caused by violence in Benue State.

Upah said the reported incident should be viewed beyond Obi’s case, warning that political differences must never become a reason for violence, exclusion or suppression of opposing views.