“A Warning Sign”: ASITU Says Obi Attacks Signal 2027 Election Violence

The Association of Igbo Town Unions has condemned the attack on Peter Obi’s convoy in Benue State, warning that repeated attacks on political candidates could herald bloodshed during the 2027 general elections. ASITU said Obi was attacked in Benin City and now in Benue State, and called on the Federal Government to investigate and prosecute those responsible.

A Pattern of Attacks

ValidViewNetwork gathered that the Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has condemned the reported attack on the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Coalition (NDC), Peter Obi, in Benue State, warning that such incidents could signal the possibility of violence during the 2027 general elections.

Obi’s convoy was reportedly attacked by a group of youths on the Makurdi-Gboko road while he was travelling to Yelwata to sympathise with victims of recent attacks in the community.

A History of Attacks

ASITU also alleged that Obi had previously come under attack during a visit to Benin City, Edo State. The association warned that repeated attacks on political candidates could create a dangerous atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections and urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further incidents.

The Association’s Statement

National President of ASITU, Chief Emeka Diwe, expressed concern over the reported Benue incident, particularly because Obi was in the state to visit victims of the attacks in Yelwata.

“The attacks on the presidential candidate of the NDC, Mr Peter Obi, have become too many. He was attacked in Benin City and now in Benue State,” ASITU said.

“The attack in Benue State is shocking because Obi was only in the state to sympathise with victims of terror attacks in Yelwata. We warn that these attacks are looming signals that the 2027 general elections may be marred by violence. Nigerians should be free to campaign in any part of the country,” the group said.

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A Call for Investigation

The group called on the Federal and Benue State governments to investigate the incident and ensure that those found responsible were brought to justice.

“Some state governors have threatened Obi against visiting their states, yet the security agencies have done nothing over the threats,” ASITU said.

“Today, it is Mr Peter Obi; tomorrow, it may be another candidate or a high-ranking Nigerian. These are also signs that no part of the country is safe as we get to the 2027 elections,” the group warned.

A Lesson for Nigeria

ASITU’s warning is a reminder that political violence is a threat to democracy. The same politicians who incite violence will never allow their own children to be victims of it. Their families are protected.

For Nigeria, the lesson is clear: the 2027 elections must be free from intimidation.

The same leaders who tolerate political violence will never allow their own children to be caught in the crossfire.

Reject political violence. Demand accountability. And never forget that the ballot box is the only legitimate weapon of democracy.