The Leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Adamawa State joins millions of Nigerians and lovers of democracy nationwide in condemning the recent attack on the convoy of the NDC Presidential Candidate, His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, and his entourage during a condolence visit to Yelwata, Benue State.
The visit was part of his nationwide presidential tour ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
In a statement signed by the State Chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Bebetu, and made available to journalists, the Chairman described the incident as primitive, destructive to Nigeria’s nascent democracy, and a brazen display of political banditry. He emphasized that such acts reflect a disturbing lack of political maturity within the Benue political class.
Mr. Bebetu warned that the attack has not only damaged Nigeria’s democratic fabric but also projected the country as a weak political entity before the global community. He noted that the growing trend of political intolerance and violence is deeply worrisome, casting a cloud of uncertainty over the future of Nigerian democracy.
Expressing disappointment in the Benue political class for introducing this dangerous brand of intolerance, thuggery, and aggression, the NDC Chairman called on President Bola Tinubu to reassure Nigerians of their safety ahead of the forthcoming elections, given the troubling signs already witnessed.
The statement further urged the Governor of Benue State to demonstrate true democratic leadership by prosecuting those responsible for the attack, thereby setting a deterrent against future occurrences.
Mr. Bebetu stressed that the momentum of change sweeping across Nigeria in the wake of Mr. Obi’s presidential ambition cannot be halted by intimidation or shallow conspiracy theories. He described the Benue incident as unprecedented political hooliganism, noting that heavily armed youths unlawfully barricaded Gboko Road in Makurdi to block the Peter Obi convoy, while rival candidates were harassed by state-backed vigilante groups and thugs.
The NDC in Adamawa State reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom, justice, and democratic participation.
The Party called on all Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation, to stand united against violence and intimidation, noting that democracy thrives only when citizens are free to choose their leaders without fear.
“The future of our nation depends on our collective resolve to protect the ballot, uphold the rule of law, and reject every attempt to silence the will of the people,” the statement added.
