By Terdue Atondu, Makurdi
The Benue State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the reported obstruction of the movement of the Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, during his visit to the state on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
The Command, in a statement signed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, on Wednesday and made available to journalists, said it was duly informed of Obi’s visit at about 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 7.
According to the statement, the Command subsequently deployed adequate security personnel to the area, including three police escort vehicles led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police.
The Police said Obi’s movement was, however, obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have escalated into violence.
The Command explained that, in order to prevent further escalation and possible loss of lives or destruction of property, its personnel took a professional and tactical decision to manage the situation.
It added that Obi was subsequently escorted safely back to the airport, from where he departed the state peacefully.
The Command stressed that its tactical response should not be interpreted as inaction, noting that it immediately commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible for the obstruction.
“Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident,” the statement said.
The Police Command reaffirmed its neutrality and professionalism, stressing that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to freedom of movement, regardless of political affiliation, status or personal beliefs.
It warned that no individual or group has the right to unlawfully obstruct another person’s movement.
The Command further assured members of the public that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
It also appealed for calm, urging the public to allow the Police to conclude its investigation into the incident.
