Obi speaks out after Benue visit blocked by State Government

Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has publicly addressed the sudden disruption of his planned visit to Benue State, alleging political interference and expressing disappointment over the state government’s actions.

In a statement released on Monday, Obi revealed that he was scheduled to visit both Plateau and Benue States between April 13 and 14, 2025. The purpose of the trip, according to him, was to pay courtesy visits to the state governors and to visit Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and schools of nursing to show support and compassion for victims of conflict and underprivileged Nigerians.

While his visit to Plateau State went smoothly—with the Governor granting full access and warmly receiving him—Obi said he encountered significant challenges in Benue.

“I tried repeatedly to contact the Benue State Governor directly without success,” Obi said. “Eventually, I reached his ADC, who assured me the governor would call back. That call never came until three days later, and by then, I had already left for Benue.”

Obi stated that while en route from Jos to Makurdi, his security team intercepted a press statement—allegedly from the Benue State Government—advising that the visit be stopped. The same statement was later forwarded directly to him by the Governor’s aide-de-camp, matching the details of Obi’s pre-submitted itinerary.

“I was disturbed by how an ADC would not have been able to reach his principal for three days,” Obi said, adding that his intention had always been rooted in humanitarian concern, not politics. “My visit was to support good causes in health, education, and humanitarian relief—things I’ve been involved in long before entering politics.”

Obi’s planned itinerary included visits to a school being constructed by a bishop in Gboko, a nursing school, and an IDP camp. He emphasized that such efforts reflect his continuous commitment to the well-being of Nigerians, regardless of political affiliations.

“I have endured far worse situations in my political life, but the unfolding events demand I speak out,” Obi said. “We must stop politicizing everything and work together to build a better Nigeria.”