Update: Peter Obi Dismisses Edo Governor's Threat, Vows to Keep Supporting Nigerians Through Philanthropy

Former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has restated his unwavering dedication to uplifting communities across Nigeria, declaring that he will continue visiting states for humanitarian purposes regardless of political intimidation or personal threats. His comments came on the heels of a controversial warning from the governor of Edo State, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, who reportedly stated that Obi’s safety could not be guaranteed should he visit the state again.

Responding to journalists’ questions in Awka, Anambra State, the former presidential hopeful made it clear that fear has never guided his actions. Obi, who had just concluded a philanthropic visit to his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC) in Onitsha, emphasized that he regularly receives threats across the country but remains undeterred in his mission to invest in people’s lives.

At CKC, Obi led a donation drive that secured a remarkable N50 million to support the construction of staff quarters and administrative blocks within the school. He noted that the funds were made possible through collaborative efforts between him and fellow alumni, who shared his concern over the institution’s infrastructural needs. His speech centered on the importance of community building and the need for influential citizens to direct their resources towards meaningful causes rather than engage in performative politics.

“The threats are meaningless to me,” Obi told the press, brushing aside the governor’s warning. “Do you know how many threats I receive daily across Nigeria? The only reason some of them make headlines is because they are more public, more vocal. But I’ve never allowed threats to dictate my actions.”

Rather than backing down, Obi stated that if duty calls him to Edo again, especially to extend help or make contributions, he will go without hesitation. “If I have the opportunity to return to Benin to support another initiative or make a donation, I absolutely will. I’ve always maintained that our focus should be on the people, not on political games.”

He continued by expressing disappointment at Governor Okpebholo’s stance, suggesting that the governor should have embraced his philanthropic effort rather than opposing it. According to Obi, leadership should be defined by collaboration, not hostility, especially when it concerns education and healthcare.

“The governor should have worked with me or even commended what we were trying to do,” Obi said. “When you help train quality doctors or nurses, you're investing in the overall wellbeing of society. That’s what really matters.”

At CKC, Obi spoke passionately about the pressing need to reinvest in Nigeria’s educational infrastructure. He urged others with legitimate sources of income to contribute to nation-building rather than hoard wealth or misuse public funds. “It’s not about donating because you have excess or because you want to be seen,” he explained. “It’s about honest individuals coming together to respond to the real needs of society.”

Beyond the Onitsha event, Obi revealed his packed schedule, noting that he intends to visit several schools in the coming days. “Today I’m in this school. Tomorrow, I will be in another school elsewhere in Nigeria. On Saturday, Sunday and Monday as well. This is what I’ve committed myself to doing and I’m not backing down.”

For Obi, investment in people is not a campaign slogan but a lifelong calling. He reaffirmed that he will continue to work toward a more equitable Nigeria, regardless of the political climate or resistance from those in power.

The N50 million donation to CKC is only the latest in a series of interventions Obi has made in the education and health sectors. He has consistently emphasized that development begins when people of influence take responsibility for their communities.

He closed his remarks with a challenge to Nigerians in privileged positions, urging them to be proactive in addressing societal challenges. “If you are blessed and your income is verifiable, use that to impact lives,” he said. “Lift people from poverty. Contribute to education and healthcare. Don’t just make noise, take action.”

Despite threats and political friction, Obi's message remains clear and consistent: he will continue to support Nigerian communities and will never be intimidated by attempts to deter him from that path.