By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) strongly condemns the shameful attack and obstruction of our Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, by suspected hired thugs in Benue State on Tuesday.
In a press statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Osa Director, Esq, National Publicity Secretary, NDC said that according to reports at the party’s disposal, the group that attacked Obi was allegedly led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
The statement read: “Armed with dangerous weapons, they blocked Mr. Obi’s convoy and prevented him from gaining entry into Yelwata community, where over 270 people were reportedly massacred”.
In his own words, Mr. Obi stated:
“I arrived in Benue this morning at about 9 a.m. with the intention of visiting the victims and families affected by the horrific killings in Yelwata. Unfortunately, we were stopped from proceeding to the community by thugs chanting, ‘Peter Obi, go back.’”
The NDC finds it deeply troubling and condemnable that a visit intended solely to mourn with grieving families, offer solidarity, and listen to victims about how to prevent future tragedies was obstructed in this manner.
Mr. Obi further stated:
“I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer our solidarity during a moment of unimaginable pain. At a time when our nation should be united in grief and committed to preventing further loss of life, we must avoid actions that deepen divisions.”
The NDC believes that Benue and all Nigerians deserve to live, sleep peacefully, travel safely, and farm their lands without fear. Above all, they deserve a government that prioritizes the protection of human life above every other consideration.
Although access to the community was denied today, the hearts and prayers of the NDC and our Presidential Candidate remain with the victims, their families, and the entire Yelwata community.
We will not be deterred. The NDC will persist until we restore the fundamental responsibility of government: the protection of every Nigerian’s life.
We call on the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately investigate this incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and guarantee the safety of all citizens and leaders who seek to show solidarity in times of grief”.
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