Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has refuted remarks reportedly made by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, suggesting that he must obtain clearance before visiting the state.
Speaking on Thursday in Onitsha, Obi emphasized that he is not deterred from going to any region in Nigeria.
His comments came during a ₦50 million donation ceremony to his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha.
The funds, contributed alongside other alumni, are intended to boost the school’s infrastructure and learning environment.
Christ the King College, established in 1932, boasts an impressive list of alumni, including Dr. Peter Odili, former Governor of Rivers State, and former Anambra governors Peter Obi and Willie Obiano.
During his address, Obi stated: “I am not afraid of visiting any state in Nigeria, particularly when the purpose is to support causes that contribute to nation-building, such as education, health, and poverty alleviation.”
He expressed concern over the political interpretations of his recent trip to Benin, clarifying that the visit’s main objective was to support improvements in the state’s healthcare sector.
“I went to Benin to invest in a better life for the people. If they have good doctors and nurses, life will be better for them. What I expect the governor to do is to complement efforts aimed at improving society,” Obi explained.
Speaking on his donation to CKC, Obi described it as a token of appreciation to the institution that played a critical role in shaping his principles and character.
“This school helped form the values I and many others still hold dear today, discipline, moral grounding, and academic excellence. Supporting it is a way of giving back,” he said.
He also encouraged other alumni across the nation to contribute to their former schools, stressing that government alone should not bear the weight of educational advancement.
Receiving the cheque, the Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke also an alumnus praised Obi and his fellow donors for their commitment to education and national progress.
He offered prayers and urged others to follow their example.
CKC’s Senior Prefect, Master Ejike Ekene, called Obi a role model and a source of motivation, expressing sincere gratitude on behalf of the students for the substantial support.
