Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential flagbearer Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, touched down in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Wednesday to headline a high-profile town hall meeting and conduct a humanitarian outreach.
The high-stakes visit features a dual itinerary: a community engagement session in Makurdi and a condolence trip to Yelewata located within the Guma Local Government Area. During the stop at Yelewata, Obi is scheduled to lay a wreath at a local cenotaph built to honour those who lost their lives in the tragic June 2025 massacre, while also offering support to bereaved families.
What led to the Yelewata memorial visit?
The solemn stop follows a devastating assault that occurred in June 2025, which tragically claimed upwards of 200 lives and displaced numerous local residents. The incident remains a significant flashpoint in security discussions concerning the region.
Prior to the arrival of the presidential ticket, Professor Terhemba Shija, the NDC governorship candidate in Benue, briefed journalists during a Tuesday press conference in Makurdi. Shija clarified that the itinerary focused strictly on community mourning and public engagement, noting that the delegation would bypass official government installations.
Who is attending the Makurdi town hall?
Organisers have structured the Makurdi town hall to be inclusive of a broad cross-section of society. Expected participants include traditional rulers, civil society representatives, student bodies, women associations, youth groups, and organized labour unions from across the state.