JUST IN: Peter Obi Reacts to Governor Alia’s Warning, Gives Reasons for His Visit to Benue

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has reacted to the statement from Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, distancing the state government from his planned visit to Makurdi and issuing a security advisory against unsanctioned political gatherings.

In a tweet shared via his official X handle, Obi expressed disappointment and surprise over the unfolding events, emphasizing that his visit was strictly humanitarian in nature. “Ordinarily, I would not have commented on this issue,” Obi wrote, “as I have endured far worse situations in my political life since I declared for the presidency… But the unfolding events demand that I have to start speaking out now.”

Obi explained that his trip, scheduled for Monday, April 14, was meant to include visits to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, nursing schools, and other humanitarian stops in both Plateau and Benue States. While the Plateau State Governor received him warmly and approved his visit, Obi said he was unable to reach Governor Alia despite several efforts.

“I tried repeatedly to contact the Benue State Governor directly without success. I then successfully contacted his ADC who told me that the governor was in a very important meeting and would call me before midnight… I didn’t get that call until Sunday evening,” Obi revealed. He noted his surprise that an aide could not reach the Governor for three days, raising concerns about communication within the state leadership.

According to Obi, his visit was not political but focused on continuing the humanitarian work he has long been engaged in. “I am forced to remind them… that the purpose of this journey is to support good causes in areas of critical development: health and health education, education and caring for our people in need,” he said.

Obi recounted how, even during his time as Governor, he sought permission from then-President Goodluck Jonathan to visit Haiti during a crisis. “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,” he stated.

He lamented the politicization of goodwill efforts and urged leaders to focus on the greater good. “May God help us as we rebuild our nation and aim to achieve a new Nigeria where we do not politicize everything… A new Nigeria is POssible,” Obi concluded.