The media office of the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has dismissed claims by former Minister of Sports Development and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Solomon Dalung, that Obi has not visited Plateau State since the 2023 general elections.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, the media office described Dalung’s assertion as “false and unfounded,” insisting that Obi had visited Plateau on several occasions over the past three years.
According to the statement, Obi had not only visited the state multiple times but also spent nights there on two separate occasions, with the visits attracting significant public and media attention.
The media office said the former Anambra State governor’s trips to Plateau were motivated by humanitarian, political and strategic concerns, particularly in response to recurring communal violence and insecurity affecting parts of the state.
It noted that Obi had visited communities in Bokkos, Mangu, Bassa and Barkin Ladi, where he met victims of attacks and internally displaced persons, offering relief materials, financial support and assistance for clean water projects.
The statement recalled that Obi marked his 62nd birthday in July 2023 with displaced persons in Mangu Local Government Area instead of holding a formal celebration, describing the gesture as a demonstration of solidarity with affected communities.
It further stated that the former presidential candidate had maintained regular engagements with traditional rulers, including the Gbong Gwom Jos, as well as state officials, as part of his efforts to support peacebuilding and strengthen political relationships in the North Central region.
According to the media office, Obi’s activities in Plateau extend beyond politics, combining humanitarian interventions with advocacy on security and development issues.
The statement urged the public to disregard Dalung’s comments, maintaining that Obi’s record of visits and interventions in Plateau State was well documented.
The media office concluded by reiterating its belief that “a new and truthful Nigeria is possible.”