Peter Obi has responded to Edo Governor and reaffirmed his right to visit any Nigerian state.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has rejected remarks allegedly made by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, suggesting he must seek permission before visiting the state.
Speaking on Thursday in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi stated emphatically that he has nothing to fear and does not require clearance to visit any part of Nigeria, especially when the purpose is to contribute positively to national development.
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“I have no reason to be afraid of going anywhere in this country,” Obi said. “When the mission is to support education, healthcare, or any other development cause, I will always show up.”
Obi made the comments during a cheque presentation ceremony at Christ the King College (CKC), his alma mater, where he and other Old Boys donated ₦50 million towards infrastructure upgrades at the historic institution.
Founded in 1932, CKC has educated several prominent Nigerians, including Obi himself, former Rivers State Governor Dr. Peter Odili, and ex-Anambra Governor Willie Obiano.
Speaking to the students and guests, Obi explained that his recent visit to Benin City, Edo State, had been unfairly politicized. He stressed that the trip was focused on supporting health sector improvements, not political activities.
“I was in Benin to invest in the lives of ordinary people through better healthcare,” he said. “What I expected from the state government was encouragement, not resistance. Any support towards the well-being of Nigerians should be welcomed.”
Obi went on to describe the donation to CKC as an act of gratitude to a school that played a pivotal role in shaping his values.
“This school gave us a foundation in discipline, learning, and character. Supporting it is one way of giving back and ensuring that future generations benefit even more,” he said.
He also called on alumni across Nigeria to support their former schools, stressing that educational development is a collective responsibility that cannot be left solely to government.
Receiving the donation, the Archbishop of Onitsha and fellow CKC alumnus, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, praised Obi and others for their commitment to educational upliftment and national development. He prayed for continued blessings upon the donors and urged more Old Boys to follow their lead.
The school’s Senior Prefect, Master Ejike Ekene, also expressed heartfelt appreciation, describing Obi as a role model and a symbol of hope for young Nigerians.
“Your generosity inspires us to believe in the power of education and in giving back,” the student leader said.