Tension in Makurdi as Anti-Obi Protesters Block Gboko Road Near Air Force Base

Tension rose in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Tuesday as a group of protesters opposed to the presidential candidacy of Peter Obi barricaded the Gboko Road near the Air Force Base.

The protesters, reportedly comprising men and youths, blocked the road and disrupted vehicular movement in the area as Obi arrived in Makurdi.

The demonstrators were heard chanting, “We don’t want Peter Obi,” while preventing motorists from accessing the route close to the airport.

The development caused traffic disruption and heightened tension in the area, with motorists forced to seek alternative routes.

Earlier, Obi had arrived in Benue State and was received by officials of the NDC, amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The purpose of Obi’s visit was not immediately clear, although sources said the former Anambra State governor was expected to hold engagements with political stakeholders and could be seeking support and endorsements ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.

Security personnel were reportedly monitoring the situation around the protest area as authorities worked to manage the disruption.

The incident comes amid increasing political activities across the country as major political actors intensify consultations and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.