By George Ozalla
A planned visit by Mr Peter Obi, former presidential aspirant of Labour Party to Benue State has been thrown into chaos after the state’s government allegedly issued a press statement designed to stop the trip. The former aspirant, who wished to visit IDP camps and schools of nursing in the state to offer support, claims to have been left in the dark about the reasons behind the sudden move.
According to Obi, attempts to reach the Benue State Governor were unsuccessful, with the governor’s ADC citing a busy schedule and failing to follow up as promised. Despite this, he decided to proceed with the trip, but was halted en route when their security team received the press statement allegedly from the Benue State Government.
Obi expressed dismay at the apparent mix-up, emphasizing that the purpose of the visit was to support critical development areas such as health, education, and care for those in need. He noted that this visit aligns with a long-standing commitment to philanthropy, both in private life and during their political career.
Obi further recalled seeking permission from former President Goodluck Jonathan to visit Haiti during the earthquake, highlighting their genuine concern for citizens in need. “Everyone knew then how I had to get permission from the then President, President Goodluck Jonathan, that I needed to visit Haiti during the earthquake,” Obi stated.
Mr Obi concluded by calling for a more compassionate and less politicized approach to governance, emphasizing the need for citizens to exist and thrive without undue interference. “May God help us as we rebuild our nation and aim to achieve a new Nigeria where we do not politicize everything but allow citizens to exist, and we all should live for the common good for less privileged Nigerians and those in need.”
The controversy surrounding the visit has raised questions about the motivations behind the Benue State Government’s actions and the extent to which politics can influence humanitarian efforts in the state.
