Benue Government Requires Obi to Notify Alia Before Visit

The Benue State Government has mandated that Peter Obi, the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, must officially inform Governor Hyacinth Alia prior to any visit to the state. This statement was made by Solomon Iorpev, the Benue State Commissioner for Information and Culture, in response to Obi's announcement of a planned return to the state.

Legal experts have indicated that there is no law preventing any candidate from visiting a state during election campaigns, citing the Freedom of Movement in the 1999 Constitution. Obi's recent visit was marred by an attack on his convoy by suspected thugs, which prevented him from reaching Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area to support victims of a terrorist attack.

Despite this, Obi stated his intention to return, emphasizing that his visit was not political but aimed at listening to the community's needs. Iorpev criticized Obi's portrayal of the incident as a political strategy for publicity, while assuring that the state would ensure his security if proper notification is given.