Idara Jerome, Uyo
The Obidient Elders Council in Akwa Ibom State has questioned the security arrangements in Benue State following the reported obstruction of Peter Obi’s movement during his visit to communities affected by violence.
The council said the incident exposed what it described as a disturbing contradiction in the state’s security situation, arguing that a former governor and presidential candidate should not be prevented from visiting victims of violence while criminal elements continue to pose threats to residents.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its representative, Engr. Pius Ebong, the group demanded an impartial investigation into the incident and the circumstances that allowed the alleged obstruction to take place.
Obi was reportedly in Benue to sympathise with families and communities affected by recent attacks when his movement was obstructed by persons the council described as suspected political thugs.
The development, according to the group, goes beyond the personality of Obi, as it raises questions about the ability of security agencies to protect citizens and guarantee freedom of movement in the state.
“How can citizens living in fear of bandits and other violent criminals be left vulnerable, while a former governor and presidential candidate coming to identify with victims of violence is physically prevented from reaching them?” the council asked.
The group said the most important issue was to establish the identities of those who allegedly blocked Obi and determine how they were able to operate openly without being stopped by security personnel.
It asked: “Who were the people who blocked Peter Obi? Who organised them? Why were they allowed to operate openly? Where were the security agencies?”
The council also challenged the Benue State Government to back its reported denial of involvement with concrete action, saying the authorities should ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
“If, on the other hand, there is evidence that they were sponsored or encouraged by political actors, those responsible—regardless of their position or political affiliation—must equally face the full weight of the law,” it said.
The elders maintained that government had a constitutional responsibility to protect all citizens and political actors, irrespective of their political affiliations.
They further called on the Federal Government, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to investigate the incident independently and make their findings public.
The council also warned political leaders against normalising intimidation and violence as instruments of political competition, saying such practices could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.
“The real test of democracy is not how government treats its friends and supporters. It is how it treats its critics, opponents and ordinary citizens who have no political protection,” the statement said.
The group said Benue residents deserved peace and security, while political leaders and other Nigerians should be able to visit affected communities without fear or obstruction.
It added that the priority should be protecting citizens and victims of violence rather than allowing political disagreements to create further tension.
“Benue needs security—not political intimidation. Nigeria needs democracy—not political thuggery,” the council declared.
