NEWS
“If They Bring Thugs, We Bring Our Own Thugs” — Isaac Fayose Blasts Peter Obi Over Benue Convoy Attack
Businessman and good governance advocate, Isaac Fayose, has criticised the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, following an attack on his convoy during a visit to Benue State.
Fayose expressed disappointment over Obi’s decision to leave Benue for Plateau State after the reported incident, arguing that the former Anambra State governor should have completed his planned humanitarian visit to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the state.
The incident reportedly occurred as Obi visited Benue to sympathise with a community affected by a recent attack that claimed the lives of several residents. Suspected thugs were said to have attacked his convoy during the visit, raising fresh concerns over the safety of political figures as preparations gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the development in a video shared on his verified Facebook page, Fayose said Obi’s calm and gentlemanly disposition, while admirable, could become a political disadvantage in the highly competitive 2027 presidential race.
According to him, Obi has every constitutional right to visit any part of the country and should not be deterred by intimidation or threats.
Fayose questioned why Obi would abandon his planned engagement in Benue and proceed to Plateau following the attack, insisting that such a response could embolden others to attempt similar actions against him.
“I am highly disappointed in Mr Peter Obi today. Why will he leave Benue State for Plateau State without accomplishing his mission? My leader, you are a Nigerian; you have the right to travel anywhere.
“How are we going to take the government from Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC?
“If they bring thugs, we bring our own thugs. Thugs for thugs, fire for fire, trouble for trouble. If we are playing this gentleman’s game, we’re going to lose our election.
“I’m very sad that you left Benue. Other state governors will want to do it to you because they know you are gentle,” he lamented.
Fayose’s remarks have added another dimension to the debate surrounding political aggression, security and campaign strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
While he maintained that Obi’s character and gentlemanly approach were commendable, Fayose argued that the political environment requires a stronger and more confrontational posture, particularly if Obi intends to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC.
His comments also come amid growing political activity across the country, with major political parties and presidential aspirants increasingly positioning themselves for the 2027 contest.
The Benue incident, meanwhile, has renewed attention on the security challenges surrounding political movements and public engagements, particularly when high-profile politicians visit communities affected by violence.
Fayose’s central argument was that Obi should not allow his reputation for being calm and restrained to prevent him from asserting himself more forcefully in the political arena as th
e 2027 election approaches.