The political atmosphere in Benue State is attracting serious attention as former Labour Party presidential candidate and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, Peter Obi, visits the state amid heightened security arrangements and growing political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi is expected to hold a town hall meeting in Makurdi and embark on a humanitarian visit to Yelewata community, where he will pay tribute to victims of the deadly June 2025 massacre and sympathise with families who lost their loved ones.
The visit comes against the backdrop of previous controversies surrounding Obi’s movements in Benue. His earlier attempt to visit Yelewata in September 2026 was disrupted when suspected political thugs reportedly blocked his convoy along Gboko Road in Makurdi.
The incident generated widespread criticism, with the police subsequently confirming the arrest of 46 suspects allegedly connected to the obstruction.
Ahead of Wednesday’s visit, the NDC governorship candidate in Benue State, Professor Terhemba Shija, raised concerns about the safety of Obi and his supporters.
Shija accused the Benue State Government of allegedly attempting to frustrate the visit and called on security agencies, particularly the police and Department of State Services (DSS), to provide adequate protection.
However, the state government has strongly rejected the allegation, describing it as false and mischievous. The government maintained that Peter Obi and other Nigerians are free to visit Benue, while urging political supporters to conduct themselves peacefully.
According to the announced itinerary, Obi will visit Yelewata to honour victims of the massacre before proceeding to a town hall meeting with residents and stakeholders in Makurdi.
Interestingly, the visit is already generating conversations online, with many Nigerians questioning why a former presidential candidate requires such heightened security arrangements simply to visit a state and meet its residents.
Others believe the development highlights the importance of protecting political freedom and ensuring that opposition politicians can carry out legitimate activities without intimidation.
With the 2027 elections approaching, all eyes are now on Benue as Obi continues his political engagements and humanitarian outreach.
For many Nigerians, the bigger concern is whether the country can guarantee a peaceful political atmosphere where every candidate can campaign, travel and engage with citizens without fear.
