By Chinedu Echianu
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of all Political Parties in Nigeria, FNYLPPN, has called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain neutral and ensure a transparent investigation into the alleged obstruction of a humanitarian visit by presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, in Benue State.
The group also urged the Benue State Government to investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable.
Obi and his delegation were reportedly stopped along the Boko Road near the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi on September 8, while on a planned visit to sympathise with families and Internally Displaced Persons affected by recent attacks in Yelwata and other communities.
In a statement, Chairman of the FNYLPPN and National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu and the Forum’s Publicity Secretary and National Youth Leader of the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, Ozu-Fredrick, said the alleged obstruction was troubling and unacceptable in a democratic society.
The Forum said every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation, has the right to freedom of movement and association, warning that politicising humanitarian and condolence visits could set a dangerous precedent.
It urged security agencies to protect all citizens and guarantee the safety of political and humanitarian actors in the state, particularly at a time when Benue and other parts of the country are dealing with insecurity and displacement.
The youth leaders also rejected the use of thuggery, roadblocks and intimidation as tools of political engagement, urging political actors to embrace tolerance and sportsmanship ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It further urged the Benue State Government and security agencies to handle the matter responsibly, saying Nigeria’s democratic future depends on respect for citizens’ rights and peaceful political engagement.
