Peter Obi Visits Niger State, Donates ₦20 Million in Response to Devastating Floods
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In a gesture of empathy and solidarity, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, paid a condolence visit to Niger State over the weekend, following the catastrophic floods that ravaged the Mokwa area and left a trail of devastation in their wake.
The floods, which have claimed more than 200 lives, left about 1,000 people missing, and displaced over 3,000 residents, have plunged the state into mourning and emergency response.
Speaking on his visit, Mr. Obi, who was accompanied by the National Caretaker Committee chairman of the party, Senator Nenadi Usman and national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, emphasized the gravity of the tragedy and the importance of national solidarity in times of crisis.
“This incident and others happening all over Nigeria affect us all,” Obi stated solemnly. “And as a family, we must come together to care, comfort and stand together, especially in times of grief and difficulty.”
Mr. Obi disclosed that, while still abroad, he had reached out directly to Niger State Governor, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, to express his condolences.
“While in the UK yesterday, I had earlier called the governor to express my heartfelt condolences,” Obi said, emphasizing his commitment to staying engaged despite his physical absence from the country.
During his visit to the state, Mr. Obi was warmly received by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Yakubu Garba, who provided a briefing on the extent of the damage and the ongoing relief efforts. The duo also discussed the immediate and long-term needs of the affected communities.
“We had a discussion about the urgent needs of the affected communities,” Obi noted. “Where over 200 lives have been lost, about 1,000 persons are still missing, more than 3,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and several homes destroyed.”
In a tangible show of support, Obi announced a ₦20 million donation to aid in relief efforts, underscoring his commitment to standing with the people of Niger State.
“As part of my commitment to stand with the people of Niger State during this difficult time, I made an initial donation of ₦20 million to support the effort of the government,” he said. “And I will continue to support their effort.”
Mr. Obi extended a heartfelt appeal to the Federal Government, humanitarian agencies, and all well-meaning Nigerians to rally support for the embattled communities.
“I hereby urge and appeal to the Federal Government, all support agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to assist the good people of Niger State in ameliorating their suffering,” he said.
He also took a moment to commend the courage and dedication of the state and local emergency response teams.
“I wish to commend the efforts of the Governor and the local response teams for their courage and resilience in the face of this overwhelming challenge,” Obi said.
Ending his visit with a message of hope, Mr. Obi offered prayers for the victims and families affected by the disaster.
“I pray that God comforts the families of those who have lost their loved ones, protects those still missing, and grants healing and strength to everyone affected by this disaster,” he said. “May Niger State find peace and restoration.”
The visit, marked by empathy and a call for national unity, underscores the growing concern among Nigerian leaders about the increasing frequency of climate-induced disasters and the urgent need for effective disaster response infrastructure and support systems.
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