Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has responded to recent remarks made by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who reportedly insisted that Obi should seek approval before visiting the state.
Speaking in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Thursday during a donation ceremony at his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC), Obi clarified that his visit to Benin City was solely for developmental purposes, not for political reasons.
“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 stated.
Context: Controversy Over Benin Visit
Obi’s visit to Edo State for a healthcare initiative reportedly stirred controversy, with some quarters politicizing the trip. Governor Okpebholo was said to be displeased that Obi visited without prior notice to the state government.
In his response, Obi defended the intent behind his visit.
“I went to Benin to invest in a better life for the people. If they have good doctors and nurses, life will be better for them. What I expect the governor to do is to complement efforts aimed at improving society,” he explained.
Obi Donates N50 Million to Christ the King College
During the event in Onitsha, Peter Obi presented a N50 million cheque to Christ the King College, in collaboration with fellow alumni. The donation is aimed at funding infrastructural upgrades and improving the learning environment at the institution, which was established in 1932.
“This school helped form the values I and many others still hold dear today — discipline, moral grounding, and academic excellence. Supporting it is a way of giving back,” Obi said.
The event was attended by top clergy and alumni, including the Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, who praised Obi’s unwavering support for education.
Call to Action for Alumni Nationwide
Obi urged alumni of other institutions to emulate the gesture by investing in their former schools, emphasizing that educational development should not be left to government alone.
“We all have a role to play in building this country. Whether through health, education or poverty alleviation, we must continue to work together to uplift our people,” Obi added.
The school’s Senior Prefect, Ejike Ekene, also delivered a heartfelt message, describing Obi as a “role model and an inspiration” to students.
Peter Obi reaffirmed his commitment to national development, vowing to continue supporting initiatives that uplift Nigerians, regardless of political affiliations or regional divisions.
