The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the reported blockage of the convoy of New Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from entering Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

Obi had reportedly planned to visit the community to honour victims of a previous massacre and sympathise with families affected by the killings but was allegedly prevented from accessing the area.

Reacting to the incident, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah expressed concern over what he described as growing intolerance towards opposing political views in Nigeria.

Upah said the development was troubling, especially in a country operating a multi-party democracy where citizens are constitutionally entitled to hold different political opinions.

“We are alarmed by the rising cases of political violence across the country, reflective of intolerance of alternative views,” he said.

The NLC spokesman described political intolerance as “unhelpful, unnecessary and unacceptable,” stressing that political disagreements should not result in violence or attempts to silence opposing voices.

He urged individuals and groups promoting intolerance to desist, reminding them that Nigeria’s democracy was achieved through years of sacrifice.

Upah also called on politicians and their supporters to embrace peaceful political engagement and focus on policies and ideas rather than hostility.

“We call on all to eschew violence. Play politics of issues, not crude and unguided partisanship without vision,” he said.

He stressed that Nigeria’s multi-party democracy requires respect for different opinions and the freedom of political parties and their candidates to participate in political activities.

The NLC’s reaction comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties increasing their campaigns and mobilisation across the country.

Yelwata has previously witnessed deadly attacks and remains a symbol of the insecurity, displacement and suffering caused by violence in Benue State.

Upah said the reported incident should be viewed beyond Obi’s case, warning that political differences must not become a justification for violence, exclusion or the suppression of opposing views.

NLC Condemns Blockade of Peter Obi’s Convoy in Benue

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