The Benue State Government has challenged Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi to identify the government aide he alleged was responsible for mobilising youths who blocked his convoy during his attempted visit to Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area.
The challenge was issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Tersoo Kula, during an appearance on Arise TV’s The Morning Show.
The controversy followed Obi’s visit to Benue State, where he had planned to travel to Yelewata to sympathise with families affected by deadly attacks in the community.
Obi alleged that his convoy was stopped by youths who mounted a roadblock and asked him to turn back. He subsequently called on security authorities to investigate the incident.
The Benue Government, however, denied involvement in the incident, insisting that the administration of Governor Alia does not deploy thugs as instruments of governance or security.
Kula said the government was prepared to allow security agencies investigate the incident and prosecute anyone found responsible.
The state government also questioned the circumstances surrounding Obi’s visit, arguing that a presidential candidate travelling to a sensitive location should ordinarily have coordinated with relevant security authorities.
The disagreement has added another layer to the growing political tension between Obi and the Benue State Government ahead of the 2027 presidential election.