Police Arrest Suspects After Peter Obi’s Convoy Was Blocked In Benue

The Benue State Police Command has arrested some suspects over the alleged obstruction of the convoy of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), during his visit to the state on Tuesday.

The state Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this on Wednesday at a press briefing in Makurdi. He, however, did not reveal the exact number of people arrested.

Nwadiogbu said the officers deployed for Obi’s visit handled the situation carefully to prevent the incident from turning violent.

He explained that the police chose a tactical approach because any attempt to forcefully clear the area could have led to deaths or damage to property.

According to him, Obi was later escorted safely to the airport and left Benue without further incident.

“Unfortunately, Mr. Obi’s movement was obstructed by a group of persons, creating tension and a situation that could have degenerated into violence.

“At that point, the Police took a professional and tactical decision to avoid an escalation that could have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property. Mr. Obi was subsequently safely escorted back to the airport and departed the state peacefully.

“The Command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”

The police commissioner stressed that the police remained neutral and would protect the rights of every citizen, regardless of political party, position or personal beliefs.

“No individual or group has the right to unlawfully obstruct another person’s movement,” he said.

The commissioner assured residents that anyone found to have taken part in the incident would face the law.

He also appealed to the public to remain peaceful and allow investigators to complete their work.

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