Peter Obi Dares Edo Governor, Says He’s Not Afraid To Visit Any State

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has dismissed recent remarks by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who warned that Obi’s security could not be guaranteed if he visited the state without official clearance.

Speaking at Christ the King College (CKC) in Onitsha on Thursday, Obi said he had no fear of visiting any part of the country, especially when the mission is to support vital causes.

“I am not afraid of visiting any state in Nigeria, particularly when the purpose is to support causes that contribute to nation building, such as education, health, and poverty alleviation,” he stated.

Governor Okpebholo had stirred controversy on July 18 when he declared that Obi’s security would not be ensured if he visited Edo uninvited, saying, “He cannot come to Edo without telling me. A new Sheriff is in town. His security cannot be guaranteed. We are serious about it. Whatever happens to him when he comes to Edo State, he will take it.”

The governor referenced a previous visit in which Obi reportedly donated N15 million, alleging that the donation sparked a crisis that led to the death of three people in Benin.

But Obi rejected the insinuations and stood by his actions, insisting his visit was solely focused on healthcare support.

“Threats don’t make any meaning to me. I receive threats every day. Actually, the ones you know about were because it was vocal, but I will not be afraid,” he said.

He stressed that he would gladly return to Benin if given the chance to continue his philanthropic efforts.

“If I have the opportunity to go to Benin and make donations again, trust me, I will. I have always said that we should de-emphasise politics and think more of how to invest in the people.

“I went to Benin to invest in people because if they have good doctors and good nurses, they will have a better life. What I expect the governor to do is to complement efforts aimed at improving society.”

During his visit to CKC, Obi, an alumnus of the school, donated N50 million to support infrastructure development aimed at boosting educational standards.

Archbishop Valerian Okeke received the cheque on behalf of the school and applauded Obi and other alumni for their dedication to education and national development.

Senior Prefect Ejike Ekene also thanked Obi and described him as a role model and inspiration to students.