Police Arrest 46 Over Peter Obi’s Obstruction in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 46 people over the obstruction of the movement of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, during his visit to the state on Tuesday.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this on Wednesday at a press conference in Makurdi, saying the arrests followed intelligence-led operations launched after the incident.

Nwadiogbu said the police were informed of Obi’s planned visit at about 5:30 pm on Monday, September 7, after which security personnel were deployed to protect him throughout his movement in the state.

He said the security team included three police escort vehicles and personnel led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police.

According to the commissioner, Obi’s movement was later blocked by a group of people, creating tension and raising fears that the situation could turn violent.

He said the police chose to act tactically to prevent the incident from escalating into violence that could have resulted in deaths or destruction of property.

Nwadiogbu said officers subsequently escorted Obi safely back to the airport, from where the former Anambra State governor left the state without further incident.

The commissioner explained that the decision to move Obi away from the scene should not be interpreted as failure by the police to take action against those responsible.

He said the command immediately began intelligence-led operations to identify people involved in the incident, leading to the arrest of 46 suspects, while efforts were continuing to apprehend others connected to the case.

Nwadiogbu reaffirmed the neutrality of the Benue Police Command, saying the force would protect the rights of Nigerians regardless of their political affiliation, status or personal beliefs.

He warned that individuals and groups were not permitted to unlawfully prevent others from moving freely within the state.

The commissioner said anyone found responsible for the incident would face the law, while urging residents to remain calm and allow the police to conclude their investigation.