The Benue State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned the alleged attack on the convoy of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his visit to Makurdi, describing the incident as an indication of the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s fear of defeat ahead of the elections.

The party, in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Agile Ordedoo Bem, described the incident as “senseless” and unacceptable, alleging that the attack reflected growing intolerance toward opposition voices in the state.

Obi was in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, to commiserate with victims of the recent deadly attacks in Yelewata, a community in Guma Local Government Area, and to identify with families affected by the violence.

According to the NDC, a group of youths allegedly attacked Obi’s convoy during the visit, throwing stones and chanting slogans including, “Obi should go back,” “Tinubu must stay,” and “No Alia, No Benue.”

The party linked the incident to broader concerns over insecurity in Benue, particularly the recurring attacks on communities by armed groups suspected by authorities and residents to be Fulani militias.

Reacting to the incident, Obi said he was not in the state to cause trouble but to sympathise with victims and share in their pain.

He also expressed concern that his fundamental rights had been infringed upon, particularly with political activities now officially underway following the opening of the electioneering period by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The former Anambra State governor urged his supporters not to retaliate or take the law into their own hands, calling for restraint and responsible conduct.

Obi also interpreted the incident as evidence of nervousness within the APC ahead of the elections, while maintaining confidence that the NDC would secure victory across constituencies in the country.

The NDC governorship candidate in Benue State, Prof. Terhemba Shija, separately condemned the incident, warning against actions capable of heightening political tension and triggering unrest in the state.

Shija assured party supporters that the NDC would not be intimidated by violence or provocation, stressing that the party remained committed to pursuing its political objectives through constitutional and democratic means.

Similarly, the state chairman of the party, Ohini Ojegbe, appealed to residents seeking a peaceful, just and prosperous Benue to reject political intimidation and support the NDC.

Ojegbe said the party was committed to the principles of rule of law, justice, accountability, inclusion and service, urging residents to join its campaign for what he described as credible and responsible leadership in Benue and Nigeria.

The party further called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and prosecute anyone found to have participated in, sponsored or facilitated the alleged attack.

The NDC also alleged that relief materials worth billions of naira brought by Obi for victims of the Yelewata attacks were looted by hoodlums during the incident.

The party urged security authorities to recover the materials and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.