Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, pledged ₦15 million to support survivors of the June 2025 Yelewata massacre in Benue State. According to Premium Times, Obi announced the commitment on Wednesday after visiting the Guma Local Government Area community. He stated he met with families affected by the attack, which left scores dead and displaced many others.
Obi specified that ₦10 million would fund the education of orphans, while ₦5 million would build a borehole for clean water. In a statement, he told Premium Times, "No child should be forced to let the tragedy that has affected their family determine the course of their future." He acknowledged that financial support cannot restore lost lives but aims to preserve dignity and create opportunities.
The candidate also pledged ₦10 million to the College of Nursing Sciences in Gboko, established by Catholic Bishop William Avenya. Obi said he supported the institution since its inception and viewed the contribution as an investment in collective future healthcare and education. He also met with the Tor Tiv in Gboko to discuss development and peace issues.
The visit followed previous conflicts between Obi and the Benue State government over his access to insecure areas. Premium Times reported that in September, Obi’s convoy was forced to turn back after confrontation with suspected thugs and security operatives. His campaign photographer, Esther Umoh, alleged the men were sponsored to block his entry. The report noted these allegations had not been independently verified.
Ahead of the current trip, NDC governorship candidate Terhemba Shija accused the government of planning to disrupt the visit. The government denied this, promising visitor safety. Obi thanked Governor Hyacinth Alia in his statement, noting he had contacted the governor before traveling and received assurances of a warm reception. The visit concluded with a town hall in Makurdi attended by Obi, running mate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and other NDC candidates.