In an unexpected turn of events, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has spoken out regarding the cancellation of his planned visit to Benue State, attributing the disruption to actions taken by the Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
Obi, who has a history of prioritising humanitarian efforts, expressed his disappointment in a statement released earlier today.
“I ordinarily 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 stated. “However, the unfolding events demand that I start speaking out now.”
The visit, which was intended for the 14th of April 2025, was designed to include courtesy calls to the governors of both Plateau and Benue States, as well as visits to internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and nursing schools. “My trip was meant to extend support, care, and compassion to fellow Nigerians in need,” Obi explained.
Obi recounted his attempts to communicate with Governor Alia prior to his visit, revealing that he had reached out multiple times without success. “I managed to contact the governor’s ADC, who informed me that the governor was in a very important meeting and would call me back. Unfortunately, I did not receive that call until Sunday evening,” he lamented.
As Obi continued his journey from Jos to Makurdi, he was informed by his security team that a press statement had been issued by the Benue State Government, seemingly aimed at preventing his visit. “The letter referred exactly to my itinerary that I had conveyed to the ADC,” he noted, expressing confusion over the lack of communication.
The former Anambra State Governor emphasised that his intentions were purely humanitarian. “This journey is about supporting good causes in areas of critical development: health, education, and caring for our people in need,” he remarked. “I have done this in my private life for years and will continue to do so.”
Obi concluded with a hopeful message for the future of Nigeria. “May God help us as we rebuild our nation and aim to achieve a new Nigeria where we do not politicise everything, but instead allow citizens to exist for the common good, particularly for the less privileged,” he asserted. “A new Nigeria is POssible.”
