Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of all Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) has expressed its strong condemnation of the alleged obstruction and harassment of the Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Gregory Obi, during his planned humanitarian visit to Benue State on September 8, 2026. This was contained in a statement jointly signed by Hon. Eze Onyebuchi, National Youth Leader, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chairman, Forum of National Youth Leaders of all Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) and Announcer, Comrade Ozu- Fredrick Lamawal Important, National Youth Leader, Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Publicity Secretary, FNYLPPN.
The statement reads: “According to verified reports and video evidence, Mr. Obi and his delegation were blocked along Boko Road near the Air Force Base in Makurdi by persons reportedly led by a Special Adviser to the Benue State Government. The purpose of the visit was to commiserate with families and Internally Displaced Persons affected by the recent attacks in Yelwata and other communities, where over 200 lives were lost.
“We find this action deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democratic society.
Our Position:
“1. Democracy and Free Movement: Every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation, has a constitutional right to free movement and to associate with citizens in any part of the country. Politicizing humanitarian gestures and condolence visits sets a dangerous precedent.
“2. Security and Governance: At a time when Benue State and other parts of the country are battling insecurity and displacement, leaders should be encouraged, not obstructed, from drawing national attention to the plight of victims and offering support.
“3. Youth and the Future of Politics: As youth leaders across all political parties, we reject the use of thuggery, roadblocks, and intimidation as tools of political engagement. Our generation must build a Nigeria where issues are debated, not suppressed.
“We therefore call on:
1.The Benue State Government to investigate this incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
2.The Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain neutral, protect all citizens, and guarantee the safety of political and humanitarian actors in Benue State.
3.All political actors to embrace tolerance, decorum, and the spirit of sportsmanship ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Benue State in their moment and grief, and every well meaning Nigerian who wishes to sympathize with victims of terrorism not withstanding their political identity. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we must not allow partisan interests to override our common humanity,” it also added.
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