POLICE ARREST SUSPECTS OVER PETER OBI’S CONVOY BLOCKADE IN BENUE

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By; Sunmola Ganiyat

The Benue State Police Command has arrested some suspects in connection with the obstruction of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, during his visit to the state on Tuesday.

The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press conference in Makurdi, although he did not reveal the number of people arrested.

Nwadiogbu said police officers deployed to provide security during Obi’s visit acted professionally and tactically to prevent the situation from escalating into violence, which could have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property.

He explained that the decision by the command to exercise restraint should not be interpreted as inaction, noting that the police subsequently ensured that Obi was safely escorted to the airport, from where he left the state peacefully.

The CP said the incident occurred when a group of individuals obstructed Obi’s movement, creating tension and raising concerns that the situation could degenerate into violence.

According to him, the command has since commenced intelligence-led operations to identify everyone involved in the incident.

He said, “The Command has commenced intelligence-led operations to identify those responsible. Key arrests have been made, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all other persons connected with the incident.”

Nwadiogbu reaffirmed that the police command remained a neutral and professional institution, stressing that every Nigerian has the right to freedom of movement regardless of political affiliation, social status or personal beliefs.

He maintained that no individual or group had the right to unlawfully prevent another person from moving freely.

The police commissioner assured the public that anyone found culpable would face appropriate legal action after the completion of investigations.

He also appealed to residents to remain calm and allow the police to conclude their investigation into the incident.