Why I warned Peter Obi towards visiting Benue – Gov Alia

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has clarified why he suggested former Labour Celebration presidential candidate, Peter Obi, towards visiting the state, explaining that the choice stemmed from issues over protocol and safety.

In an interview with TVC Information, Governor Alia criticized Obi for not following the correct channels, significantly for failing to tell him about his deliberate go to.

Alia additionally rejected Obi’s declare that he had tried to contact him previous to the go to.
Obi had initially scheduled a go to to Benue, with plans to interact in courtesy calls and go to internally displaced individuals (IDP) camps and well being services.

Nevertheless, the state authorities issued an announcement urging towards unscheduled visits, citing safety issues.

In consequence, Obi cancelled his journey, expressing disappointment over what he noticed as political interference in his charitable efforts.
Reacting to the scenario, Governor Alia stated, “I’m the one bearing the brunt and ache of the individuals in my state. Peter Obi is a really revered determine, having been a governor himself, and in case you’re coming to another person’s state, there are protocols to comply with.”

Alia defined additional, “If you happen to’re coming to my state and your social gathering shouldn’t be conscious of your go to, and I, the sitting governor, am not knowledgeable, then it turns into a problem.

“I’ve an obligation to guard my individuals, particularly these within the IDP camps. I would like to concentrate on your go to with a purpose to present safety and put together the IDPs on your arrival.”
The governor additionally refuted Obi’s claims of makes an attempt to contact him, stating, “If he couldn’t attain me immediately, there are different channels, together with my Chief of Employees, the Secretary to the State Authorities (SSG), and my Principal Non-public Secretary (PPS).

“For him to say that he reached out to my ADC shouldn’t be correct. That isn’t even the ADC’s accountability.”
Governor Alia emphasised the significance of understanding the intent behind any go to, significantly to susceptible populations.

“If you happen to’re bringing meals to the IDPs, I must know what sort of assist you’re providing. There are protocols in place for a purpose.

“You’ll be able to’t simply arrive from Abuja and head straight to an IDP camp with out anybody being conscious of your intentions. I would like to make sure the protection of these individuals and perceive the character of the go to.”
The governor additionally cautioned towards the politicization of the IDP scenario, stating, “I’m right here with my individuals via their struggling and sorrow.

“Folks mustn’t use the IDP disaster for political achieve. I’m on the bottom, and I do know what the individuals want.”