Okpebholo: I am not afraid of visiting any state in Nigeria – Obi

Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has responded to criticism from Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, regarding a recent unannounced visit to Benin City.

Obi who disclosed this in Onitsha on Thursday when he donated ₦50 million to his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha, to support infrastructural development and educational advancement.

“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.

Addressing the specific trip that sparked the criticism, Obi said, “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, not politicise them.”

Obi emphasized that his mission remains consistent—offering support in areas that improve lives, especially healthcare and education. He said he would not hesitate to return to Edo or any other part of Nigeria where such contributions are needed.

The donation, made in collaboration with fellow alumni, was presented during a special ceremony attended by the Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, school authorities, students, and members of the CKC Old Boys Association.

Speaking at the event, Obi described the donation as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the institution that helped shape his early life.

READ ALSO: Peter Obi donates ₦50m to Christ the King College, responds to Okpebholo’s criticism

“This school helped form the values I and many others still hold dear today—discipline, moral grounding, and academic excellence,” Obi said. “Supporting it is a way of giving back to the institution that helped shape who we are.”

He called on Nigerians to support their alma maters and schools in their communities, noting that the government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of education.

“The burden of education should not rest solely on the government,” Obi said. “If every Nigerian who has the means supports at least one school, our educational system will be far better than it is today.”

Receiving the donation on behalf of the school, Archbishop Valerian Okeke praised Obi and his fellow donors for their unwavering commitment to education and societal progress. He offered prayers for the contributors and urged others to follow their example.

Also speaking at the event, the school’s Senior Prefect, Master Ejike Ekene, expressed gratitude on behalf of the students, describing Obi as a role model whose values and generosity continue to inspire future generations.

“Your leadership and kindness serve as a beacon of hope for all of us,” he said.