MAKURDI, Benue State – In a swift response to a highly publicized security breach, the Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 suspects allegedly linked to the obstruction of prominent Nigerian politician Peter Obi’s convoy during a visit to the state on Tuesday, September 8, 2026

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According to reports, Mr. Obi traveled to Benue State on a non-campaign, condolence visit to sympathize with communities and families affected by the recent Yelwata crisis and other localized killings

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However, shortly after his arrival, his movement was halted by a group of individuals who allegedly blocked the road, preventing the convoy from proceeding into Makurdi

. Videos circulating on social media showed men carrying sticks and other makeshift weapons pursuing the convoy as it was forced to turn back, while police officers positioned themselves between the vehicle and the agitated group

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Esther Umoh, a photographer affiliated with Mr. Obi’s team, stated on social media that the roadblock appeared to be orchestrated by “sponsored thugs” specifically deployed to prevent the politician from entering the state

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CP Nwadiogbu clarified that the police command was formally notified of Mr. Obi’s visit at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 7

. In response, the command deployed adequate security personnel, including three police escort vehicles led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police, to ensure his safety

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“At that point, the police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property,” CP Nwadiogbu explained

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Following this tactical withdrawal, which saw Mr. Obi safely escorted back to the airport for his departure, the police immediately launched intelligence-led operations to identify and apprehend those responsible

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“Let me state clearly that the tactical decision taken by the police should not be mistaken for inaction,” the Commissioner asserted, confirming that 46 arrests had already been made, with ongoing efforts to apprehend all other individuals connected to the incident

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The incident has triggered a wave of political finger-pointing. Supporters of Mr. Obi have subtly and directly accused the state government of complicity, suggesting that the blockade was a deliberate attempt to prevent him from engaging with aggrieved citizens

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However, the Benue State Government has vehemently denied any involvement. In a statement signed by Tersoo Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, the administration rejected allegations that suspected thugs were acting on its behalf

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The government questioned why the visit had not been formally communicated to the relevant security authorities through official channels, emphasizing that it does not “engage or deploy thugs as instruments of governance or security”

. The statement reiterated that recognized security agencies are solely responsible for maintaining law and order in the state

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The obstruction of a prominent political figure’s movement has drawn sharp condemnation from civil society organizations. Amnesty International described the alleged use of political thugs to block Mr. Obi’s movement as an act of “political repression” and has called for a thorough, transparent investigation into the matter

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The incident also serves as a stark warning ahead of the 2027 general elections. CP Nwadiogbu used the press briefing to issue a stern warning to all political actors, stating that security agencies will no longer tolerate actions that could heighten political tensions or undermine democratic processes

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“The Benue State Police Command remains a neutral and professional institution,” Nwadiogbu stated. “Every Nigerian has the right to freedom of movement, irrespective of political affiliation, status, or personal belief. No individual or group has the right to unlawfully obstruct another person’s movement, and all those found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”