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Tag: Peter Obi

  • Popular Nollywood actress makes strong vow to Peter Obi amidst increasing threat

    Popular Nollywood actress makes strong vow to Peter Obi amidst increasing threat

    Iheme Nancy, the Nollywood actress, has publicly thrown her weight behind the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi.

    The thespian via her verified Instagram page on Monday night said she is ready to campaign for him anytime, even without payment.

    The actress who says she doesn’t get involved in politics disclosed that she will make an exception for the former Anambra governor.

    She added that she will be campaigning for former LP presidential candidate for her unborn children, her family, and her entire generation.

    She wrote: “I don’t usually do this, but I am going to campaign for Peter OBI anytime any day….. if there’s anyplace I need to register for his campaign, please involve me cause I will do it for free, for my unborn children, for my family, for my generation, Why the HOTE???? That means he’s doing something right 1700 … I don’t do politics but I will involve myself 100 when is time. #dropmic”

    Iheme’s pledge is coming days after the Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, publicly warned Obi against visiting Edo, pointing out that doing so would pose a risk to his safety.

    “Whatever he sees, he should take,” the Edo governor cautioned Mr Obi.

    Although Mr Okphebolo’s statement has been widely condemned as it violates the Nigerian Constitution. The actress stated that such criticism directed at Obi, “may be proof that he is doing something right.”

    Okpebholo, on the other hand, had doubled down on his statement, saying it was informed by the rising insecurity in Edo, citing how Mr Obi arrested former Governor Nasir El-Rufai in 2013. 

  • Peter Obi barred from entering Polytechnic campuses across Nigeria

    Peter Obi barred from entering Polytechnic campuses across Nigeria

    The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has declared former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi persona non grata on all Nigerian polytechnic campuses. This decision stems from his refusal to retract false claims about student violence at Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State.

    NAPS President Eshiofune Paul Oghayan in a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, faulted Obi’s handling of the Auchi Polytechnic student union election crisis, accusing him of spreading unverified and misleading information.

    Oghayan said, “Mr. Obi, without due verification, recently misled the public with false information regarding the Student Union Government (SUG) elections in Auchi Polytechnic.

    “In a widely circulated statement, he claimed: ‘I watched a heartbreaking video that showed students in Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State running for their lives as they were being shot at during their student election yesterday, which left two students dead and several injured.’”

    Oghayan described the claim as “not only false but reckless,” saying it painted a wrong picture of the incident and unfairly linked the violence to Nigeria’s political leadership.

    The students’ body said it had earlier demanded a public retraction and apology from Obi, which he failed to deliver.

    The NAPS president said, “We, as the direct custodians of student welfare, held a press conference and called on Mr. Obi to retract the statement and issue a public apology, especially to the student community of Auchi Polytechnic.

    “But he remained silent. The same man who built his campaign around ‘go and verify’ failed to verify before peddling unsubstantiated claims. That is not leadership; it is manipulation.”

    The students’ association invoked a nationwide ban on Peter Obi’s access to all polytechnic campuses, following what it termed Obi’s “unrepentant silence.”

    “By the moral authority and constitutional responsibility vested in the office of the President of NAPS, I, Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, hereby declare Mr. Peter Obi as persona non grata on all campuses of our institutions across the country, with a mandated distance of not less than 10 kilometres from any student community,” the student leader stated.

    He insisted that the declaration was not an act of vengeance but “a call for accountability.”

    Oghayan also addressed Obi’s recent claims that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, had barred him from entering the state, stating that the governor’s actions were driven by security concerns and standard protocol.

    He said, “Governor Okpebholo may have spoken with bluntness, but his concern was rooted in security intelligence and recent events.

    “Reports confirmed that three lives were tragically lost shortly after Mr. Obi’s last visit to the state. In light of such unrest, what responsible governor would fold his arms and play passive?”

    While acknowledging Obi’s ₦15 million donation to St. Philomena’s Catholic Hospital, Oghayan questioned the consistency of the former governor’s philanthropic gestures.

    “This is the same Mr. Obi who famously declared during his campaign that ‘he doesn’t give shishi,’ a slogan that became both a mantra and identity of his political movement. But today, we see him making high-profile donations in public glare. Is this growth or contradiction?” he asked.

    The NAPS president concluded by advising that donations to religious or healthcare institutions be done with discretion and in coordination with security agencies.

    “When public donations are made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, they must be approached with strategic discretion… Otherwise, such noble institutions may become unintended targets of violence – as evidenced by the chaos that followed his recent visit,” Oghayan warned.

  • He’s just struggling- Edo Govt mocks Peter Obi’s presidential ambition

    He’s just struggling- Edo Govt mocks Peter Obi’s presidential ambition

    The Edo State Government on Monday said the former Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is no threat to the All Progressives Party (APC).

    TheNewsGuru reports that the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohonbamu, during a recent interview with Channels Television said that conversation about Obi was the least of the state’s worries.

    “Peter Obi is the least of our worries. APC can’t be threatened because of Peter Obi.

    “Ask him what he will even do when he becomes president, and he’ll simply say, ‘Let me get there first. There is no clear-cut blueprint of what he wants to do,” Ohonbamu said.

    Downplaying Obi’s political influence in the South East, the state government said, “Enugu is governed by the PDP and Anambra by APGA. So where is his dominance?”

    “Peter Obi is the least of our worries. He’s just struggling in error. I can assure you, his defeat is a fixed deposit,” he added.

    The government questioned his competence and ambition to lead the nation.

    Ohonbamu’s assertion followed the recent refusal of the state government to allow Obi’s visit to the state.

    The State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, had warned Obi against visiting the state without security clearance.

    “His security will not be guaranteed. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking,” the governor said.

    However, the state government, after backlash from some Nigerians, clarified the narratives as “misinterpretations” of the Governor’s position.

    “The Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi. He only emphasised that politically exposed persons should notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before engaging in public activities within the state,” the state government said.

  • What I will do If Gov Okpebholo fails to apologize for threatening Peter Obi’s life – Kenneth Okonkwo fumes

    What I will do If Gov Okpebholo fails to apologize for threatening Peter Obi’s life – Kenneth Okonkwo fumes

    Veteran actor cum politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, has vowed to initiate a legal action against  Governor Monday Okpebholo, should the politician fail to apologize over his statement restricting the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from entering Edo State without a security clearance from him.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Okonkwo made this known on Monday morning during an interview appearance on Arise Television, where he maintained that the governor had no constitutional rights to demand Obi’s request for clearance before visiting Edo State.

    An obviously livid Okonkwo said the governor should be held liable if anything untoward were to happen to Obi.

    Asked by the anchor during the interview to maintain decorum and control his anger, Okonkwo retorted that he doesn’t maintain decorum with people like Governor Okpebholo, who also threw caution to the winds in making certain declarations that threaten the life of a Nigerian citizen.

    “If that Governor (Okpebholo) doesn’t apologize, I will be on his case,” Okonkwo declared.

    He continued saying, “When you finish beating a madman, that’s when you know he has  people. If a strand of hair falls from Peter Obi, then you will know he has kinsmen.  This is a direct attack and threat to his life.

    “Remember, the governor made it clear. He said his (Obi’s) security can no longer be guaranteed. He used the word “never” if he does not get permission from him. Let me ask Monday Okpebholo: Does it mean that when he finishes as a governor, before he travels to any state in Nigeria, he would have to seek the permission of all the governors of that state? Does it mean that 200 million Nigerians, before they step into a state, would have to seek permission from the governor?

    “The law has even been made clear that you don’t even need permission even when you want to embark on a peaceful protest.   If you don’t need permission when you want to embark on a protest,  how can a Governor be talking about permission to visit a state? That is offensive. These are the questions.  I reject his action with everything that is within me.

    ” You know, that is what Julius Caesar said in Julius Caesar.  He said that we have men above me that are fat, sleek-headed men, such as Monday Okpebholo who has a leaner, hungry look.  They think too much of themselves. He said such men are dangerous.  I’m telling you, if you go to his office, you will not even see him. He should stop it!”

  • Gov Okpebholo gives only condition to welcome Peter Obi into Edo State

    Gov Okpebholo gives only condition to welcome Peter Obi into Edo State

    Governor Monday Okpebholo has disclosed that Edo State will only welcome Mr Peter Obi and all well-meaning Nigerians, provided appropriate security and procedural protocols are respected.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Okpebholo made the disclosure in a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr Fred Itua.

    Recall Okpebholo had earlier at an event warned that Peter Obi must not enter Edo State without notifying the government, stating that the former Anambra governor’s safety could not be guaranteed otherwise.

    However, the State Government has claimed that various misinterpretations surrounded the recent remarks made by Okpebholo regarding the visit of Mr Obi to the State.

    The statement reads: “It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi, but rather emphasized the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before embarking on any public engagements within the State.

    “As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike.

    “This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention. When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats.

    “Governor Okpebholo’s position is particularly relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.

    “Edo State has witnessed its share of these tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy in recent years. Public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels, to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger”.

    It reads further: “The Governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in both security intelligence and moral responsibility.

    “The Holy Scripture reminds us that giving is best done in private, as Jesus admonished us in Matthew 6 : 2 – 4 that, “when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpet…but when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

    “In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated. Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.

    “Furthermore, the Governor’s concerns should not be twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points. The State Government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives. We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.

    “Governor Okpebholo is committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State for all. His administration is working tirelessly to address the insecurity it inherited, and his call for coordination and orderliness should be seen as a measure of responsible governance, not hostility.

    “The Edo State Government will continue to welcome all well-meaning Nigerians, provided appropriate security and procedural protocols are respected”.

  • Why I ‘threatened’ Peter Obi – Governor Okpebholo speaks

    Why I ‘threatened’ Peter Obi – Governor Okpebholo speaks

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has clarified his controversial remark about former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi’s visit, saying it was misunderstood and rooted in protocol, not hostility. 

    TheNewsGuru reports that in a widely circulated video, Governor Okpebholo was seen addressing supporters and warning that Peter Obi must not enter Edo State without notifying the government, stating that the former Anambra governor’s safety could not be guaranteed otherwise.

    He particularly condemned the recent visit of Peter Obi, to Benin City, and asserted that it coincided with a resurgence of violence.

    “That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance,” the Governor stated.

    However, his comments drew widespread condemnation from Labour Party Senators, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), OBIdient Movement and many Nigerians.

    After backlash over his comments linking Obi’s visit to violence, the governor through his spokesperson, Fred Itua emphasized inclusivity and respect for all Nigerians, stressing the importance of adhering to official procedures.

    Okpebholo clarified that Edo State remains a home for all Nigerians, regardless of party affiliation, faith, or creed. He added that his government is committed to politics of inclusivity, not exclusion, adding that his administration is one of bridges, not walls.

    He insisted that proper protocols must be adhered to by political leaders, including Obi.

    Itua pointed out that the governor’s comment was not an attack but a statement borne out of official protocol, not personal bias.

    His statement reads: “At every point in the journey of leadership, those in authority must provide not only stewardship but also clarity. The weight of governance often demands that decisions, words, and actions reflect a deep sense of responsibility, not just to one’s immediate constituency but to the broader Nigerian family. This is the principle that guides Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership.

    “Much like the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s compelling reflection in his 1989 book, Because I Am Involved, the current realities in Edo State require a similar declaration. The governor’s words and actions are not accidental; they are deeply rooted in duty, context, and commitment to Edo people. His statement — now the subject of public commentary — was made in a setting that demanded clarity of roles and respect for official order.

    “Governor Okpebholo, a man of civility and courtesy, upholds the highest traditions of intergovernmental respect and protocol. In public events where protocol is critical, the order of recognition and speech must follow laid-down standards, especially where serving officials and guests of honour are present.

    “His clarification was a restatement of this norm — that while all visitors to the state are welcome and respected, official channels and roles must be observed to maintain structure and avoid unintended misinterpretations.

    “It is important to state that Edo remains a home for all Nigerians, regardless of party affiliation, faith, or creed. As a leader elected to serve every Edo citizen, Governor Okpebholo is committed to politics of inclusivity, not exclusion. His administration is one of bridges, not walls.

    “Governor Okpebholo’s passion for service is evident in the transformational work already underway across Edo State. In education, his three-pronged strategy — rebuilding infrastructure, recruiting teachers, and reforming pedagogy — is returning public schools to centers of excellence.

    “In agriculture, the cultivation of over 3,000 kilometers of arable land, backed by increased budgetary allocation, is reviving food production and rural enterprise.

    “Major road construction projects are reconnecting communities and easing trade and mobility. On security, the governor’s support for anti-cultism and anti-kidnapping legislation, alongside thousands of operational vehicles for security agencies, shows his seriousness in keeping Edo safe.

    “These are not the pursuits of a distracted leader. They are the footprints of a man focused on development, driven by duty — because he is involved.

    “The beauty of Nigeria’s democracy lies in its plurality — in its allowance for differing voices, divergent views, and shared national aspirations. Governor Okpebholo holds this sacred. He respects every political leader, including Mr Peter Obi, and recognizes the role they play in deepening Nigeria’s democratic space. But, proper protocols must be adhered to by political leaders, including Obi.

    “Where misunderstandings arise, it is the responsibility of leaders to clarify, not to condemn. And that is what this moment calls for: clarity. The governor’s comment was not an attack. It was a statement borne out of official protocol, not personal bias.

    “Edo is at a defining moment. The mandate given to Governor Okpebholo is not just to build infrastructure but to rebuild trust. As one who listens, learns, and leads, he remains open to every Nigerian willing to see Edo thrive. The inherited issues we face as a state — from youth unemployment to security and education — demand collaboration, not confrontation.

    “Let this moment not divide us but deepen our resolve for understanding. Let it remind us that even in disagreement, we must preserve our common humanity.”

  • Edo ex-commissioner reacts over Okpebholo’s threats on Peter Obi

    Edo ex-commissioner reacts over Okpebholo’s threats on Peter Obi

    Mr Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, a former Edo Commissioner for Digital Economy, has apologised to Peter Obi and Nigerians over the recent threatening remarks made by Gov. Monday Okpebholo.

    Okpebholo reportedly gave the warning in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state on Friday,

    Okpebholo was quoted to have issued the threat, saying he could not guarantee the former presidential candidate’s safety in the state.

    He made the statement while receiving Hon. Marcus Onobun, former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member representing Esan West/Igueben/Central in the House of Representatives.

    Onobun, who decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC), was formally welcomed into the party on Friday.

    But in a statement issued on Saturday in Benin, Ifaluyi-Isibor described the alleged threat as reckless and embarrassing to Edo  people.

    According to him, the people of Edo are warm, hospitable, and tolerant, noting that they had never been known for issuing threats—even against political opponents or critics.

    Ifaluyi-Isibor condemned the governor’s comments, stating that Edo was a civilised, educated, and welcoming society.

    According to him, such conduct does not reflect the true character and values of the Edo people.

    “The recent comments by Governor Okpebholo warning Mr Obi against visiting Edo were widely viewed as reckless, embarrassing, and unbefitting of a public servant.

    “Let it be said clearly that is not who we are. We do not threaten guests, allies, or adversaries in Edo state. The Governor is not a true reflection of Edo people. His outburst does not define us.

    “Following the video’s circulation, I received numerous calls. My first reply: Governor Obaseki is no longer in office; this is a new Sheriff entirely,” he said

    He explained that Peter Obi, and indeed all Nigerians, had the constitutional right to visit or reside in any part of the country without seeking anyone’s permission.

    “Edo people genuinely admire Peter Obi. If he joined a birthday party on election day, that party would likely win in the governor’s polling unit.

    “Let’s overlook his lapse in judgment and forgive. Our culture and ancestors have always welcomed everyone. We remain a proud people rooted in tolerance, unity, and peace across all political affiliations.”

    According to him, while the state government increasingly resents criticism, I apologise in advance to anyone offended, please.

  • Police bar Peter Obi’s supporters from holding rally in Kaduna

    Police bar Peter Obi’s supporters from holding rally in Kaduna

    The  Police Command in Kaduna State said it has banned all unauthorised political rallies in the state.

    The command’s spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan, stated this in a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna.

    Hassan said,  “The  command wishes to bring to the attention of the public that it has received credible intelligence regarding a planned political rally by supporters of Mr Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate, in honour of his birthday.

    “While the command respects the right of individuals to associate and celebrate their political leaders, it is important to emphasise that all forms of political rallies and public gatherings of a political nature remain suspended across the state.

    “This is until the official commencement date of political activities as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    “Additionally, intelligence at the disposal of the command indicates that certain criminal elements are planning to infiltrate and hijack the proposed rally, using it as a platform to cause disruption, incite violence, and disturb the prevailing public peace in the state.

    “The command further notes that the Parties primaries for the forthcoming bye election in the state are scheduled by INEC to take place on the same date as the proposed rally.”

    He said that the parties had formally notified the Police of their event, in line with established protocols.

    Hassan said it was important to state that the planned rally was expected to overlap with and disrupt several areas designated for the conduct of the other political parties primaries.

    He added, “Thereby posing a significant risk of tension, clashes, and breakdown of law.

    “In view of these developments, the command strongly advises the organisers of the planned Peter Obi rally to suspend any gathering or procession.

    “If  they wish to hold any form of event in honour of their principal, it is advised that such activities be suspended to ensure public safety and prevent potential hijack by miscreants.”

    The spokesperson said the  command remained committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all the residents and would not hesitate to take necessary legal action against any individual or group found violating this directive.

    He added that the command appreciated the cooperation of the public in maintaining peace and order in the state.

  • Why I did not attend Buhari’s burial – Peter Obi

    Why I did not attend Buhari’s burial – Peter Obi

    The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour party (LP) Peter Obi has opened up on the reason he failed to attend the burial of erstwhile president Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the former Anambra governor was one of the conspicuous absentees at the ceremony which took place in Daura, Katsina State explained that he could not get a flight to Katsina.

    However, the former presidential candidate  was able to make it to Daura on Wednesday, where he commiserated with the family of the late former President.

    “It was difficult to come yesterday (Tuesday) because there was no flight,” Obi told Arise TV.

    “Even if there was a flight, you couldn’t land in Katsina Airport. It was all closed, because there was a lot of dignitaries.

    “Mourning continues until tomorrow. So, whoever comes today and tomorrow, is still part of the mourning.”

     

  • Why I served food at public event – Peter Obi finally opens up

    Why I served food at public event – Peter Obi finally opens up

    The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023 elections has officially responded to the backlash directed at him following the viral pictures and videos of him serving food at a public event.

    TheNewsGuru recalls that former Anambra State Governor, was spotted in Imo state on July 10, serving food to guests at the event.  The viral footage captured the politician carrying several trays with plates of food as he went about serving the meals.

    The videos elicited mixed reactions, as many condemned the former presidential candidate for seeking attention, while others noted that what Obi did was a tradition in Igbo culture and had nothing to do with politics.

    However, speaking in a statement on Sunday, Obi explained that what happened was not about chasing clout, but its purpose was to remind people about what true leadership is, which is service.

    The Labour Party chieftain, said the event tagged Jubilee of Hope,  was a private event, however third-party figures shared videos and pictures to twist something sincere into something political.

    He added that the Jubilee of Hope is designed for the rich to come down from their high places, and serve the poor, adding that several others, including people like Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, former Chairman of Seplat Plc, Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako and others, participated in the event.

    He wrote: “My weekend activity of serving food at a special event has been generating interest, as expectedly, because leaders in our society have removed the service component in leadership.

    “It’s sounding strange that I was seen serving food to people. Let me be clear, that event was not about me. It was called the Jubilee of Hope, and its purpose is straightforward, to remind us all that true leadership is service, and that those who have must never forget those who do not.

    “When I attended the Jubilee of Hope in Imo State, it was a private service event. I did not post about it, nor did I invite media coverage. Unfortunately, some third parties, completely outside of my team, shared photos and videos. As expected, the usual naysayers and paid agents went to work trying to twist something sincere into something political.

    “But let me restate the heart of the matter, the Jubilee of Hope is designed for the rich to come down from their high places, even if just for a moment, and serve the poor, not as a show, but as a symbol of the society we must build. A society anchored on empathy, equity, and responsibility.

    “I was not the only one who served that day. Many well-meaning and distinguished Nigerians also participated, people like Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, former Chairman of Seplat Plc, Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, and many others, quietly and sincerely. It wasn’t about the cameras; it was about conscience.”

    Speaking further, Obi explained that service has always been a lifestyle for him, noting that he doesn’t have a househelp and he personally serves people who visit his house.

    He warned against twisting the lesson behind the event into a political narrative, saying service to Nigerians must not be seasonal, but must become a way of life.

    “I am genuinely surprised that this simple act has become a topic of discussion. As Governor, I always served others whenever we had events. Even now, in private life, I do not have a house help. When guests visit my home, I serve them myself. I live simply, I sweep, I clean, because for me, humility is not a campaign strategy; it is a way of life.

    “At the Jubilee of Hope, I stayed longer because many of the poor attendees requested that I serve them personally. I could not ignore them. That was the only reason. Otherwise, there was nothing special about what I did. Service is not special, it is expected.

    “We cannot speak of building a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry, the forgotten, and the poor. Events like this must not remain symbolic, they must become cultural. Public office holders, business leaders, and everyday citizens must unite in lifting others.

    “Let us work together to build a country where hope is not seasonal, and dignity is not a privilege, but a right,” Obi concluded.