Nigerian youths to reject political violence and refuse to be used by politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi made the appeal in Makurdi, Benue State, on Tuesday, after his convoy was stopped by youths who reportedly mounted a roadblock on the Makurdi-Gboko federal highway.
The former Anambra State governor was on his way to Yelewata to visit and sympathise with families affected by the deadly attacks recorded in the community in June 2025.
Obi, who arrived at the Tactical Air Command, Makurdi, at about 8am, was received by the NDC governorship candidate in the state, Professor Terhemba Shija, and other party officials. His arrival was marked by celebrations and cultural performances.
However, shortly after leaving the airport, his convoy encountered a group of youths who blocked the two-lane federal highway, reportedly chanting, “Peter Obi, go back!”
The blockade disrupted movement along the road and resulted in significant traffic congestion, with the youths preventing motorists and other road users from passing.
Speaking to journalists in Makurdi, Obi described the incident as disturbing and appealed to young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political violence.
He said it was particularly troubling that his movement was restricted while he was attempting to visit communities affected by violence and offer condolences to bereaved families.
“It is ridiculous. Our experience this morning is very very worrisome. We arrived Makurdi at 9 AM, but on our way to the Yelewata community, to console and show solidarity with the family affected by the killings of over 270 persons in that community, and support them in any way I can, only to be blocked by thugs shouting, ‘Peter Obi go back!. Peter Obi go back!’”
Obi questioned the state of security and freedom of movement in the country, stressing that political differences should not prevent citizens from travelling freely or carrying out legitimate activities.
He said his decision not to confront the youths was aimed at preventing the situation from escalating and protecting the lives of other road users.
“We didn’t want to go on and cause confusion and possibly endanger the lives of other people, so I decided to remain as civil as possible.”
The presidential candidate also called on the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to intervene and ensure that political actors do not exploit young Nigerians to cause disorder.
“I am using this occasion to appeal to the security agencies, the IG of police, and other agencies, to please intervene and be able to call various state governors to order.”
Obi warned that the country could not afford a political environment in which youths are mobilised to attack or intimidate political opponents.
“We can not go on this way. This is unacceptable,” Obi said.
The incident comes against the backdrop of an earlier disagreement between Obi and the Benue State Government, which reportedly restricted his proposed visit to internally displaced persons in the state last year without prior approval.
