Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has vowed to return to Edo State despite a warning from Governor Monday Okpebholo that his safety cannot be guaranteed. Obi, undeterred by the threat, made the statement while addressing journalists in Awka on Thursday, following a donation event at his alma mater, Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha.

The former Anambra governor dismissed the governor’s remarks, asserting that threats do not intimidate him. “Threats don’t make any meaning to me. I receive threats every day,” Obi said, adding that he faces such challenges regularly across Nigeria. He emphasised his commitment to visiting Edo if needed, particularly for charitable causes.

Obi’s visit to CKC Onitsha saw him present a N50 million donation to the school, contributed by himself and other alumni. The funds are earmarked for constructing staff quarters and improving administrative facilities, reflecting Obi’s focus on educational investment.

Addressing Okpebholo’s threat, Obi expressed disappointment, suggesting the governor should have supported his recent charitable efforts in Edo. “What the governor should have done is to complement what I was doing in his state instead of threatening me. He should be sincerely grateful,” Obi remarked.

Obi highlighted his recent visit to Benin, where he made donations to support local communities. He stressed that such initiatives aim to improve healthcare and education, benefiting residents through better access to doctors and nurses. “If I have the opportunity to go to Benin and make donations again, trust me, I will,” he affirmed.

The politician underscored his broader mission to prioritise societal development over political conflicts. “I have always said that we should de-emphasise politics and think more of how to invest in the people,” Obi stated, urging leaders to focus on uplifting communities.

Obi’s ongoing nationwide tour includes planned visits to schools across Nigeria in the coming days. He reiterated his commitment to supporting education, saying, “I’m going to be in school somewhere in Nigeria tomorrow too. I’m going to be in school on Saturday, Sunday, and even on Monday.”

Explaining the CKC donation, Obi noted that he collaborated with fellow alumni to address the school’s infrastructure needs. “I just spoke to one or two old boys of this school that we don’t have teachers’ quarters, we don’t have staff quarters and administrative blocks, and they decided to donate,” he said.

Obi called on individuals with legitimate means to invest in education and health to reduce poverty and empower communities. “Those who have verifiable honest means of livelihood should endeavour to invest in schools, invest in society, invest in health, lift people from poverty and empower others,” he urged.

The exchange between Obi and Okpebholo has drawn attention to tensions between political figures and the role of philanthropy in Nigeria. As Obi continues his charitable efforts, his defiance of threats underscores his resolve to prioritise public welfare over personal safety concerns.