The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has put his planned visit to Benue State on hold following a strong message from the state government cautioning against unscheduled visits.
Obi had been expected in the state on Monday as part of his two-day humanitarian outreach across parts of the North Central region.
In a statement released by Governor Hyacinth Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the Benue State government made it clear that it was not aware of Obi’s planned stop in the state and could not guarantee his safety.
The governor also noted that individuals or groups planning to visit Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the state must get written approval from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency.
He warned that any unapproved visits might be interpreted as political gatherings.
Obi, however, said his visit had nothing to do with politics. Speaking through a statement on X (formerly Twitter), he explained that the trip was meant to continue his humanitarian work, including visits to IDP camps, a school project, and a nursing college in Gboko.
He stated that the tour started in Plateau State, where Governor Caleb Mutfwang warmly welcomed him on April 13.
“Despite multiple attempts to reach him directly and through his aides, I received no confirmation. Eventually, while en route to Makurdi, a press statement was issued warning against the visit,” Obi revealed.
He noted that the details in the government’s release closely matched the itinerary he had shared with the governor’s ADC and local security officers. He expressed surprise at the reaction, stressing that his mission was purely humanitarian.
Obi shared his past record of similar work across Nigeria and abroad, including his involvement in relief efforts during the Haiti earthquake.
He said, “I intended to visit a school being built by the bishop in Gboko, a nursing school and an IDP camp, actions that reflect my genuine care for the welfare of our fellow citizens…”
He added that charitable work has always been a part of his life, even before he entered politics. “This is what I have done in my private life for years before getting into politics and even while in politics, I have continued to do so.”
Obi closed his message by calling for unity in helping vulnerable Nigerians. “May God help us as we rebuild our nation and aim to achieve a new Nigeria where we do not politicise everything…”
