Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, reportedly escaped an attack on his convoy by suspected political thugs in Gboko, Benue State, on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
The incident occurred as Obi was travelling into the state to commiserate with families affected by recent terrorist attacks that reportedly claimed the lives of more than 200 people.
According to reports, the suspected political thugs blocked Obi’s convoy along the Gboko road, allegedly insisting that the former presidential candidate was not welcome in the state and must not proceed.
Speaking to Arise News, Obi alleged that the protest against his visit was initiated by a Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor.
The development has triggered condemnation from political figures, with former Kano State Governor and NDC vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, describing the incident as a serious threat to democratic freedoms.
In a statement posted on social media on Tuesday afternoon, Kwankwaso said he was “deeply disturbed” by the reported attack on Obi’s convoy.
He accused unnamed actors of deliberately mobilising “unruly elements” to block and attack the convoy and prevent Obi from entering Makurdi.
Kwankwaso stressed that freedom of movement is guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and should apply to Obi as a former governor and prominent opposition figure.
He called on the Benue State Government to urgently identify and prosecute those responsible for the incident while ensuring the safety and unhindered movement of Obi and his entourage.
The former Kano governor also urged President Bola Tinubu to caution state governors, particularly those belonging to the ruling party, against actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s democratic process.
Kwankwaso further appealed to the international community, diplomatic missions and election observation organisations to take note of the incident and press Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect opposition figures and safeguard democratic freedoms.
The alleged attack comes amid heightened political activities ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections and has renewed concerns over the safety of opposition politicians and the shrinking space for political engagement.
Kwankwaso said the incident should serve as a warning that democratic rights must be protected regardless of political affiliation.
