Peter Obi Accuses Benue Govt of Sabotaging His Humanitarian Visit to IDPs.
Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has revealed how the Benue State Government abruptly halted his planned humanitarian visit to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and educational institutions. The former Anambra governor, known for his advocacy for good governance and social welfare, described the incident as “deeply troubling” in a statement released on Monday, April 14, 2025.
Obi had scheduled back-to-back visits to Plateau and Benue states as part of his nationwide efforts to support vulnerable communities. His itinerary included stops at IDP camps, health institutions, and schools—initiatives he has championed for years, both before and during his political career.
While his visit to Plateau State proceeded smoothly with the governor’s cooperation, his experience in Benue took an unexpected turn. Despite multiple attempts to notify Governor Hyacinth Alia’s office, Obi claimed he received no official response until his security team intercepted a press release from the Benue State Government canceling his visit—while he was already en route to Makurdi.
Obi disclosed that after unsuccessful attempts to reach the governor directly, he contacted the governor’s aide-de-camp (ADC), who assured him of a callback that never came. Hours later, while traveling from Jos to Benue, his team discovered the government’s public statement calling off his visit—a statement that matched his earlier shared itinerary.
“This was purely a humanitarian visit, not a political one,” Obi emphasized. “My goal was to assess the conditions of IDPs, engage with educational institutions, and offer support where possible.”
Expressing disappointment, Obi urged Nigerian leaders to rise above partisan politics when addressing national challenges. He referenced his past humanitarian efforts, including his intervention during the 2010 Haiti earthquake, to underscore his longstanding commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.
“We must not politicize everything,” he said. “Our focus should be on the common good, especially for those suffering in IDP camps and struggling communities.”
The incident has sparked mixed reactions, with some questioning the Benue State Government’s motives, while others await an official response. Political analysts suggest the disruption may reflect underlying tensions between Obi and certain state administrations.
Peter Obi Accuses Benue Govt of Sabotaging His Humanitarian Visit to IDPs.
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