The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, have arrived in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, ahead of a humanitarian visit to Yelewata and a town hall meeting with residents.
The duo arrived in the state on Wednesday amid cheers from supporters, who gathered to welcome them and chanted their names.
The visit is scheduled to feature two major engagements, including a visit to Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, where Obi is expected to pay tribute to victims of the deadly June 2025 attack. 
During the visit, the former Anambra State governor is expected to lay a wreath at the cenotaph erected in memory of those killed in the massacre and commiserate with their bereaved families.
The June 2025 attack on Yelewata reportedly claimed more than 200 lives and left several residents displaced, triggering widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over persistent insecurity in Benue State.
The NDC governorship candidate in Benue State, Professor Terhemba Shija, had disclosed the planned visit during a press conference in Makurdi on Tuesday.
Shija said Obi would meet with relatives of the victims but would not visit any government facility during the humanitarian engagement.
The second leg of the visit is a town hall meeting in Makurdi, which is expected to attract traditional rulers, civil society organisations, students, women, youths, labour unions and other stakeholders across the state.
The meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for the NDC presidential candidates to interact with residents and discuss issues affecting the state.
