Peter Obi accused of breaking protocol as Benue government reacts to road blockage

The Benue State Government has accused the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, of failing to follow established protocols during his visit to the state, following an incident where some youths reportedly obstructed his movements on Tuesday.

Benue State Information Commissioner, Solomon Iorpev, said Obi’s failure to officially notify the state government of his visit made it difficult for authorities to make adequate security arrangements for him.

Responding to the incident, Iorpev described Obi as a prominent political figure and former governor whose visit, he said, should have been officially notified to the host government.

“An important person who was a former governor of a state is coming into the state; he should write a letter to the State Government,” the commissioner said.

According to him, good communication will enable the Benue State Government to implement the necessary security arrangements and ensure the safety of the former governor of Anambra State.

“We are supposed to guarantee his safety and protection, but if there is no letter written, we cannot guarantee his safety,” Iorpev said.

The Commissioner further stated that this is not the first time that Obi has visited Benue without formally informing the state authorities, thereby indicating that such an approach could lead to unnecessary hardship.

“This is not the first time he has done this. He is just looking for trouble for us. We are peace-loving and friendly people,” he said.

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Iorpev however said he had no information on the identity of those responsible for obstructing Obi’s movement, stressing that the incident coincided with the gathering and movement of youths from the 23 local government areas of Benue State.

He explained that the situation may have been caused by the gathering of people who came from various parts of the state at the same time as Obi visited.

“So, if they come from Tarka, Gboko, Buruku, Ushongo, Konshisha or Vandeikya during his visit and block the road, it is very unfortunate. I don’t know the youth who did that,” said the commissioner.

The incident has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding Obi’s visit to Benue, with the state government stating that formal communication and adherence to protocols are essential, especially when high-profile political figures travel between states.

The Benue government stressed that the state remains peaceful and friendly, while maintaining that proper coordination between visiting officials and relevant authorities is necessary to ensure security and avoid situations that could disrupt public order.