BREAKING: Tension As Peter Obi announces plans to visit Edo State again, says Governor Okpebholo’s threat is meaningless 

Tension As Peter Obi announces plans to visit Edo State again, says Governor Okpebholo’s threat is meaningless

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has brushed off threats issued by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over his recent and proposed visits to the state. Obi described the governor’s warning as “meaningless” and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting causes that contribute to nation-building.

Speaking during a visit to his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC) in Onitsha on Thursday, where he donated N50 million for infrastructure development, Obi stated that he was not deterred by political threats.

“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,” Obi said.

This statement follows Governor Okpebholo’s controversial remarks on July 18, where he warned that Obi’s security could not be guaranteed if he visited Edo State without prior notification. Okpebholo had accused Obi of instigating unrest during a previous visit, during which three persons reportedly died after the Labour Party chieftain made a donation of N15 million.

“He cannot come to Edo without telling me. A new Sheriff is in town. His security cannot be guaranteed,” Okpebholo had said, referencing alleged security concerns following Obi’s last visit to Benin City.

Obi, however, refuted the governor’s claims, insisting that his visit to Benin was purely philanthropic, aimed at supporting healthcare services in the state. He emphasized that threats would not deter him from contributing to the development of any part of Nigeria.

“Threats don’t mean anything to me. I receive threats every day, but I will not be afraid. I went to Benin to invest in people. If I have the opportunity to go to Benin and make donations again, trust me, I will,” Obi said.

He urged political leaders to put aside partisan sentiments and focus on people-oriented development.

“What I expect the governor to do is to complement efforts aimed at improving society,” Obi added.

During his visit to CKC Onitsha, Obi presented a N50 million cheque to the school, saying the gesture was meant to enhance educational infrastructure and promote better learning conditions.

Receiving the donation, the Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, lauded Obi’s commitment to education and his enduring support for the institution and the wider community.

The school’s senior prefect, Ejike Ekene, also praised Obi, calling him a role model and source of inspiration for students.