Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, is expected to visit Yelwata community in Benue on Wednesday to identify with families of victims of the June 13 and 14, 2025 attacks.

The NDC governorship candidate in Benue, Terhemba Shija, disclosed on Tuesday in Makurdi that Mr Obi would also hold a town hall meeting with residents and stakeholders to present his political agenda.

Mr Shija said the presidential candidate would pay tribute to the victims, who lost their lives in the attack, by laying a wreath at the cenotaph erected in their honour along Lafia Road.

He said the presidential candidate would also meet with the deceased’s relatives during the humanitarian visit.

The meeting, he said, would take place at the Multi-purpose Hall of the Mission House, behind the Benue Links head office, Wurukum, Makurdi.

Mr Shija clarified that Mr Obi would not visit any government facility or internally displaced persons camp during the visit. He called on traditional rulers, civil society organisations, labour unions, students, women, youths and other residents to participate in the town hall meeting.

The NDC governorship candidate described Mr Obi as a leader with integrity, compassion and vision, expressing confidence in his ability to address Nigeria’s socio-economic and security challenges.

Mr Shija stated that an earlier attempt by the presidential candidate to visit the community was allegedly disrupted by suspected political thugs. He appealed to the Benue government to allow the visit to proceed without interference.

He also urged security agencies, particularly the police and the State Security Service, to provide adequate protection for Obi and his supporters.

“We call on all law enforcement agents to protect Mr Peter Obi and his supporters as they carry out their legitimate activities in Makurdi and Yelewata,” he said.

Mr Shija assured that the NDC would not resort to violence or take the law into its hands despite alleged attempts at intimidation. He said the party remained committed to winning the forthcoming general election and would continue to pursue its political activities peacefully.

(NAN)