Aisha Yesufu Explodes In Anger As Peter Obi’s Convoy Is Blocked During Benue Visit

Human rights activist and member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Aisha Yesufu, has condemned the reported obstruction of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, while he was travelling to Yelwata in Benue State.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Obi’s convoy was stopped by youths on Tuesday as he headed to Yelwata to sympathise with families affected by the deadly attacks in the community. Obi described the visit as humanitarian rather than a campaign activity. The police confirmed that officers were aware of his movement and had provided security, while stating that the reason for the blockade remained under investigation.

Following the development, Yesufu took to X to question the circumstances surrounding the incident, arguing that no individual or group should prevent political candidates from moving freely around the country.

“How dare anybody stop anyone from moving to any part of the country to campaign?” she asked.

She further questioned how such an incident could occur after the Independent National Electoral Commission had lifted the restriction on election campaigns.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has declared that the campaign has started. How can someone stop another from doing whatever it is that they need to do?” Yesufu stated.

Her comments came amid conflicting accounts over the incident. Obi and the NDC alleged that suspected thugs were responsible for blocking the convoy, while the Benue State Government denied any involvement and said it was unaware of Obi’s visit. The state government also rejected claims that it sponsors or uses thugs.

The Benue State Police Command has said it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the obstruction and will determine why the youths prevented Obi’s convoy from proceeding to Yelwata.

Meanwhile, Yesufu has previously spoken about her decision to vote for the All Progressives Congress in the 2015 presidential election, explaining that her support was influenced largely by the party’s then vice-presidential candidate, Yemi Osinbajo.

In an earlier interview, she said her decision was not primarily based on former President Muhammadu Buhari but on the expectation that Osinbajo would play a significant role in managing the country’s economy.

Yesufu explained that she believed Buhari had a reputation for delegating responsibilities, citing his relationship with Tunde Idiagbon during his military administration and reports at the time that Osinbajo would be given a significant role in economic management.

She maintained that her decision at the time was based on the political circumstances and expectations surrounding the 2015 election.