Why I Blocked Peter Obi From Benue IDP Camp” – Gov Alia Spills Shocking Details

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has shed light on the incident that prevented Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), from visiting an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in the state.

In an interview on TVC on Thursday, Governor Alia clarified that he had no prior knowledge of Obi’s intended visit and was unaware of its purpose, stressing that such high-level engagements require proper notification and clearance.

Dispelling speculations that the decision was politically motivated, the governor emphasized that it was a matter of protocol and security, particularly given the vulnerability of those in the IDP camps.

Responding to Obi’s complaints about being turned away, Alia insisted that the decision was purely for the safety and protection of the displaced persons.

“I would never politicize this issue. I am the one directly carrying the burden and heartbreak of the IDPs here in Benue,” he stated. “Peter Obi is a respected former governor. If you’re visiting another governor’s state, especially a sensitive place like an IDP camp, it’s only proper that the host government is informed.”

He continued: “I didn’t know his party was aware, and I wasn’t aware either. These are displaced people I have a responsibility to protect. I have no idea what his intentions were, and basic courtesy would have allowed for coordination to ensure both security and mental preparedness for the IDPs.”

Governor Alia also refuted Obi’s claim that he was unreachable, noting that even if direct contact was difficult, members of his administration were accessible for communication.