The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has publicly disclosed that he was allegedly targeted by threats originating from the Benue State Governor, a situation that disrupted his planned humanitarian visit to the state
In a statement shared on his official X handle, Obi expressed deep concern over what he described as an “unwarranted and disturbing” move by the Benue State government to obstruct his visit.
He emphasized that while he normally refrains from engaging in public controversies, the seriousness of the current development necessitated his response.
“Ordinarily, I would not have commented on this issue, as I have endured far worse situations in my political life since I declared for the presidency,” Obi wrote. “But the unfolding events demand that I have to start speaking out now.”
The former Anambra State Governor revealed that his itinerary for April 2025 included visits to Plateau and Benue states on humanitarian grounds.
His planned engagements involved courtesy visits to the governors of both states, as well as outreach activities in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and nursing schools.
While Plateau State Governor welcomed Obi’s visit with open arms and granted him full access to IDP camps, Obi said his experience with the Benue State government was the opposite.
“I tried repeatedly to contact the Benue State governor directly without success,” Obi said. “I then contacted his ADC, who assured me the governor was in a very important meeting and would return my call before midnight. That call never came.”
He added that after receiving no response for days, he decided to proceed with his visit to Makurdi out of respect for the suffering citizens he intended to support.
However, on the morning of his planned arrival, Obi claimed his security detail intercepted a press release, purportedly from the Benue State government, that appeared crafted to halt his trip.
“While I was still discussing this with my team, the governor’s ADC forwarded the same statement to me. This letter referenced the exact itinerary I had earlier shared with them—raising questions about the intent behind the release,” he said.
Obi insisted that the trip was apolitical and strictly humanitarian, consistent with his lifelong commitment to supporting vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
“I have always taken it upon myself, both in public and private capacity, to contribute to health, education, and the well-being of displaced and underserved citizens,” he said.
“Even during my time in office, I sought President Goodluck Jonathan’s permission to visit earthquake-stricken Haiti. That’s how much I care.”
He stressed that part of his itinerary in Benue included visiting a school under construction by a bishop in Gboko, a nursing institution, and an IDP camp — acts he believes should unite Nigerians rather than divide them.
“I find it disturbing that such a simple act of care and compassion could be met with resistance,” he said.
Obi concluded his message by reiterating his unwavering commitment to standing with the oppressed and displaced, even in the face of political pushback.
As of press time, the Benue State government has not released an official response to Obi’s statement. The unfolding events are expected to generate heated discussions in political and civic circles over the balance between state authority and the freedom of movement and philanthropy by public figures.