Police Arrest 46 Over Obstruction of Peter Obi’s Visit in Benue

…Insist prior notification was given

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 persons in connection with the obstruction of the movement of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Makurdi on Tuesday.

Obi was in the Benue State capital on a private visit to sympathise with victims of the Yelewata massacre and donate relief materials when a group of people reportedly blocked his movement and demanded that he leave the state.

The incident generated controversy, particularly over whether security authorities were notified ahead of Obi’s visit.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, said 46 suspects had been arrested, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend other persons linked to the incident.

Nwadiogbu said it became necessary for the command to clarify circumstances surrounding the obstruction of Obi’s movement during his visit to the state on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

According to him, contrary to claims that the police were not notified, the command received information about the visit at about 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 7.

He said adequate security arrangements were subsequently made, including the deployment of three police escort vehicles and personnel led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police.

Despite the security measures, the commissioner said Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of people, creating tension and raising fears that the situation could degenerate into violence.

He explained that police officers at the scene took what he described as a professional and tactical decision to prevent an escalation that could have resulted in loss of lives or destruction of property.

Obi was subsequently escorted safely to the airport, from where he departed the state.

“Let me state clearly that the tactical decision taken by the Police should not be mistaken for inaction. The Command immediately commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible,” Nwadiogbu said.

He stressed that the Benue State Police Command remained neutral and professional, adding that every Nigerian has a constitutional right to freedom of movement regardless of political affiliation, status or personal belief.

“No individual or group has the right to unlawfully obstruct another person’s movement,” he added.

The police commissioner assured residents that everyone found culpable in the incident would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

He also urged members of the public to remain calm and allow the police to conclude their investigation.