Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has explained why he asked Peter Obi not to visit the state. Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, had planned to visit some health centers and camps for displaced people (IDPs) in Benue.

In an interview with TVC News, Governor Alia said Obi did not follow the right protocol. He said Obi didn’t inform the state government or him about the visit.

Alia also denied Obi’s claim that he tried to contact him. Obi said he reached out before the visit, but the governor said that wasn’t true. He added that Obi should have contacted his Chief of Staff or the Secretary to the State Government if he couldn’t reach him directly.

The state government had earlier advised against unplanned visits, especially because of security risks. After this, Obi cancelled his trip and expressed his disappointment, saying it felt like politics was stopping his efforts to help.

Governor Alia responded by saying, “I’m the one taking care of the people in this state. Peter Obi is respected, but when you’re visiting another state, you must follow the rules.”

He added, “If I don’t know you’re coming, I can’t provide security or inform the IDPs. I need to know what kind of help you’re bringing so we can plan properly.”

The governor also warned against using the IDP situation for political purposes. He said he is with his people every day and knows what they truly need.