The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, Mr. Peter Obi, has explained the sudden cancellation of his visit to Benue state in support of humanitarian causes.
According to the former Governor of Anambra State, a press statement by the Benue state government declaring that it does not want any person to come to the state either for humanitarian purposes or otherwise.
He noted that since the state government specifically made the statement available to his security details stating his security is not guaranteed, he had to immediately cancel the trip.
In a statement Monday, Obi expressed concern about what he described as an unsettling incident, stating that ordinarily, he would have refrained from commenting, having endured far more challenging situations in his political journey.
However, he noted that recent events have compelled him to speak out.
According to Obi, he had scheduled visits to Plateau and Benue States as part of his on-going outreach efforts, aimed at supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) and promoting health and education initiatives.
“The visits, planned for Sunday, 13th April, in Plateau and Monday, 14th April, in Benue, were to include courtesy calls on the state governors, visits to IDP camps, and interactions with institutions such as schools of nursing.
Mr. Obi recounted that, as is his customary practice, he reached out to the Plateau State Government to notify them of his intended visit.
He disclosed that the Plateau State Governor had graciously welcomed him and provided all necessary support, allowing him to spend meaningful time with the victims at the Bokkos IDP camp.
However, he painted a different picture regarding his efforts to reach the Benue State Governor. He stated that despite several phone calls and attempts to personally inform the Governor of his visit, he was unable to establish direct contact.
He, however, according to him, eventually succeeded in speaking with the governor’s aide-de-camp (ADC), who informed him that the governor was engaged in an important meeting but promised to return his call before midnight.
Mr. Obi stated that this promised call never came, and days later, the ADC messaged him, claiming he had been unable to reach the governor – a situation Mr. Obi described as deeply troubling.
Undeterred, Mr Obi decided to proceed with his trip to Makurdi, viewing his visit to the governor as a matter of courtesy rather than necessity.
“Departing Jos at 7am on the day of the planned visit, I received an unexpected development while en route.
“Upon reaching Akwanga at about 10am, My security team intercepted a press statement, reportedly issued by the Benue State Government, effectively halting his visit.
“Curiously, while I was still discussing the matter with his team, the Governor’s ADC forwarded the same statement to me directly.
“The statement outlined precisely the itinerary I had earlier shared with both the ADC and security operatives in Benue through my own security team,” Mr Obi disclosed.
He reiterated that his visit was driven purely by humanitarian motives, aimed at supporting critical areas of development, including health care, education, and the welfare of displaced Nigerians.
He further reminded the public of his long-standing commitment to such causes, noting that even before his political career, and consistently throughout it, he had remained devoted to initiatives for the common good.
“People may recall how, during the Haiti earthquake, I had to seek permission from then President Goodluck Jonathan to travel and offer support.
“My intended engagements in Benue included a visit to a school under construction by the bishop in Gboko, a nursing school, and an IDP camp—reflecting his enduring commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable Nigerians,” he stated.
Obi appealed for a de-politicised approach to national issues, urging leaders and citizens alike to prioritise the welfare of the less privileged.
“May God help us as we rebuild our nation and strive for a new Nigeria, where we do not politicise everything, but instead live and act for the common good of all Nigerians, especially those in need,” he stated.
*The troubling press statement by the Benue state government
Monday, April 14, 2025
“Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State
“The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today.
“He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.
“Therefore, he strongly advises against any group or high profile individual(s) attempting to enter the state for any kind of visit that may generate political assemblies without prior approval.
“For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed.
“Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
“We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.
“Thank you for your understanding.
“Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State”.
