NRM's Okereke: Blocking Obi in Benue Breaches Signed Peace Accord

National Rescue Movement (NRM) Presidential Candidate, Dr Esther Okereke, has condemned Tuesday's blockade of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Mr Peter Obi's motorcade in Benue State, describing the incident as a clear violation of the recently signed political Peace Accord.

Okereke said the incident ran contrary to both the spirit and letter of the accord signed by all presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

She questioned why any candidate should face restrictions on travelling or engaging with voters anywhere in the country. "About two weeks ago, we signed a peace accord. Peter Obi was there; every presidential candidate was there. The agreement was that we are going to campaign, conduct our rallies, talk to people and try to convince and debate peacefully without intimidation and without bullying," she said.

"So now, why was he not allowed to enter into Benue? Do we still have the rule of law in Nigeria? Why is he not allowed to enter Benue? We should ask that to the system," Okereke added.

The NRM presidential candidate urged political actors, security agencies and state authorities to uphold constitutional guarantees on basic freedoms and the rule of law as electioneering activities intensify nationwide. She stressed that democratic principles must be respected by all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful electoral process.

"Please, allow the rule of law to take place in Nigeria. This is democracy—freedom of speech, freedom of movement, freedom to try to save the nation. It must always be the people first, and the nation always," Okereke said.