Peter Obi Vows to Return to Edo Despite Governor Okpebholo’s Threats

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has vowed to return to Edo State despite threats issued by the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who reportedly warned that the former Anambra governor’s safety could not be guaranteed if he visited the state again.

Obi made the declaration while addressing journalists in Awka, Anambra State, following his visit to his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha, where he presented a N50 million donation alongside other alumni.

The former governor said he remained unfazed by threats, noting that he regularly receives such messages across the country.

“Threats don’t make any meaning to me. I receive threats every day. Do you know how many times I’ve been threatened all over Nigeria? I receive threats daily—what you heard was only because that one was vocal. But I will not be afraid,” Obi stated.

He reaffirmed his commitment to philanthropy and education, stating that should the need arise for him to return to Edo State for any charitable cause, he would not hesitate.

“If I have the opportunity to go to Benin and make donations again, trust me, I will. I have always said that we should de-emphasise politics and think more about how to invest in the people. I went to Benin to invest in people because if they have good doctors, good nurses, they will live better lives,” he said.

Obi faulted Governor Okpebholo’s approach, urging him to support such philanthropic initiatives rather than issue threats.

“What the governor should have done is to complement what I was doing in his state instead of threatening me. He should be sincerely grateful,” he added.

The Labour Party stalwart further revealed that his schedule for the week includes multiple school visits and donations across the country.

“I’m in school today to make a donation. I’ll be in another school somewhere in Nigeria tomorrow, Saturday, Sunday, and even Monday. Forget about the threat—it’s a waste of time,” Obi said.

Obi’s N50 million donation to CKC Onitsha was part of a collective contribution by old boys of the college to support the development of staff quarters and administrative buildings within the school.

“I say it every day: those with verifiable and honest means of livelihood should invest in schools, in society, in healthcare, and in lifting people out of poverty. I never said go and steal money to donate to schools,” Obi explained.

According to him, the donation initiative was sparked after discussions with fellow alumni regarding the infrastructural needs of the institution, particularly the absence of teachers’ quarters and administrative facilities.

Obi’s remarks come amid rising political tensions and public concern over threats against opposition figures engaging in non-political activities, especially in states governed by rival parties.