‘Name the aide who blocked Obi’s convoy’ — Benue Govt hits back 

The Benue State Government has challenged the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to identify the aide they alleged was involved in the obstruction of Obi’s convoy during his visit to the state.

The government also demanded evidence linking the alleged aide to the incident, saying anyone found responsible should face investigation and possible prosecution.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Tersoo Kula, made the demand while speaking on The Morning Show, an Arise TV programme, on Wednesday.

Kula said the state government was unaware of the incident until images and reports of the confrontation surfaced online.

He questioned why the governor was being accused of involvement without proof.

“The incident was completely unknown to the government until we started seeing pictures of what was happening. But before you say Jack, they addressed the press and accused the governor of blocking his way. Now, the governor has become an accused person,” he said.

The controversy followed the obstruction of Obi’s convoy while he was visiting Benue State, an incident that triggered allegations of political interference.

Obi had alleged that youths linked to the government stopped him from proceeding, while AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore claimed the action was planned by the state government.

Reacting to the allegations, Kula challenged those making the claims to provide details of the person they accused.

“I challenged them that they should name that aide. They mentioned a particular aide, and we said they should go ahead and mention him. If there’s any evidence, the police commissioner should ensure that the person who directed this is arrested and brought to book,” he said.

The Benue government spokesman insisted that the state was ready for an investigation into the incident and would support action against anyone found culpable.

Meanwhile, Kula also addressed insecurity in Benue, saying the security challenges affecting the state were not unique but part of a wider national problem.

He, however, said the state government was not comfortable with the situation and was working towards improving security.

“There is no excuse saying that because it’s happening to other states, we should be comfortable. We are not comfortable,” he said.

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