Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has explained the reason behind the refusal to allow the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, access to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps during a recent visit to the state.
Speaking during an interview with TVC on Thursday, Governor Alia clarified that the decision had no political undertones, emphasizing that it was based on security protocols and the need to safeguard vulnerable communities.
According to the Governor, there was no formal communication to his office or the state government about Obi’s planned visit — a situation that raised concerns, particularly as the IDP camps require maximum protection and security coordination.
"The very respected Peter Obi was a former governor. If you're coming into another governor’s state, there are protocols. Neither I, as the sitting governor, nor even his party here in Benue, was aware of his coming. And he was heading to the IDP camp—a very sensitive location under my protection. I need to know your intent to ensure both your safety and that of the IDPs," Alia said.
He further stressed that his reaction was not an act of hostility but one of responsibility.
“I cannot politicize the pain and suffering of the displaced persons. It is my responsibility to protect them, and I needed to ensure everything was in order.”
Governor Alia also responded to Obi’s earlier claim that attempts to reach the Benue government were unsuccessful. He said that if Obi couldn’t reach him directly, he could have contacted senior officials within the administration.
Peter Obi had earlier expressed disappointment over the situation, stating that he was treated unfairly during his attempt to visit displaced persons in Benue and suggesting the need to reassess his approach to political engagements.
