An Ebonyi-born businessman, Comrade Jeremiah Obaji, has trekked for 17 days from Lagos to Abakaliki to express gratitude to Governor Francis Nwifuru for brokering peace in the protracted Ezza–Effium communal crisis.
Obaji, who began the 600-kilometre journey from Ikorodu, Lagos, on August 21, arrived Abakaliki on September 7, saying the sacrifice was his way of appreciating the governor’s intervention in restoring peace to the crisis-ridden Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
Narrating his ordeal to journalists in the Ebonyi State capital on Tuesday, the peace enthusiast recalled battling hunger, fatigue, insect bites, and severe blisters that forced him to abandon his jeans for lighter clothing.
“I faced hunger and fear of kidnappers. I also battled fatigue and blisters. At one point, I thought I would give up,” he said. “But I told myself peace is priceless. This was my sacrifice to thank the governor.”
The communal crisis in Effium, which displaced Obaji’s family and left dozens of residents dead, had festered for years until Governor Nwifuru’s administration carved five autonomous communities out of the troubled area, a decision that significantly doused the tension.
Obaji, who once openly criticized the governor on social media, admitted that his perception had changed.
“I didn’t know I was criticizing my savior. What I want now is to become an ambassador of peace,” he declared.
His unusual trek caught the attention of Ebonyi residents and Nigerians on social media, sparking pledges of support, including a car, landed property, and cash donations from admirers.
Moved by the gesture, Governor Nwifuru commended Obaji for what he described as “a rare sacrifice for peace” and rewarded him with ₦10 million.
The governor said Obaji’s action exemplified the “People’s Charter of Needs” philosophy of his administration, which prioritizes peace and inclusivity.
Obaji, however, insisted he was not motivated by personal gain, disclosing that he planned to establish a Peace Foundation to campaign against violence among young people and support children displaced by conflicts.
“I am not hungry; God has blessed me already. My focus is to help build peace, because without peace, there can be no meaningful development,” he added.
The trek, which started as a personal journey of appreciation, has now evolved into a symbol of reconciliation, as Obaji also reconnected with old friends and displaced Ebonyi youths he met along the way.
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