NDC CONDEMNS ATTACK OF PETER OBI IN BENUE STATE

HOTJIST NEWS
The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has strongly criticized what they called a disgraceful attack and interference with their presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ahead of next year‘s election, which took place today in Benue State by suspected hired attackers.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, Osa Director, the party said it will not be discouraged and will continue its efforts until the government fulfills its basic duty: ensuring the safety of every Nigerian.
The NDC urged the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to look into the incident right away, hold the culprits accountable, and ensure the security of all citizens and leaders who are willing to show support during times of sorrow.
The statement said, “According to reports, the group was reportedly led by an aide to the Benue State Governor, Rev.
Fr.Hyacinth Alia.Armed with deadly weapons, they stopped Mr.Obi’s convoy and prevented him from entering Yelwata community, where over 270 people were said to have been killed.”
It added, “In his own words, Mr.
Obi said: ‘I arrived in Benue this morning around 9 a.m.with the intention of visiting the victims and their families affected by the terrible killings in Yelwata. Unfortunately, we were stopped from going to the community by criminals shouting, ‘Peter Obi, go back.”
“The NDC finds it deeply troubling and condemnable that a visit intended solely to mourn with grieving families, offer solidarity, and listen to victims about how to prevent future tragedies was obstructed in this manner.
“Mr. Obi further stated: “I came to Benue not for politics but to mourn with our people, to listen to families who have lost loved ones, and to offer our solidarity during a moment of unimaginable pain. At a time when our nation should be united in grief and committed to preventing further loss of life, we must avoid actions that deepen divisions.”_
“The NDC believes that Benue and all Nigerians deserve to live, sleep peacefully, travel safely, and farm their lands without fear. Above all, they deserve a government that prioritizes protecting human life above every other consideration.
“We will not be deterred. The NDC will persist until we restore the government’s fundamental responsibility: protecting every Nigerian’s life.
“We call on the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately investigate this incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and guarantee the safety of all citizens and leaders who seek to show solidarity in times of grief.”
