The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has denied issuing any threat to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, following backlash that trailed his comments on Obi’s recent visit to Benin City.
Obi was in Edo State on July 7, where he donated ₦15 million to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for ongoing infrastructure projects. His visit, however, coincided with reported security incidents in parts of the state.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo said his comments were misrepresented and clarified that there was no intention to threaten the former Anambra State governor.
“The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to various misinterpretations surrounding the recent remarks made by His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, regarding the visit of Mr. Peter Obi,” the statement read.
“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 before embarking on any public engagements within the State.”
Governor Okpebholo, according to the statement, was only carrying out his constitutional duty as the Chief Security Officer of the state to ensure that adequate measures are in place to protect lives and property, especially during visits that may attract large crowds or media attention.
The government noted that Obi’s visit, though well-intentioned, occurred without any prior notice to the state authorities, raising concerns about safety, especially amid growing cases of abductions and attacks targeting religious leaders in Edo.
“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,” the statement added.
The Governor’s media aide said his principal’s remarks were purely advisory and should not be politicised or taken as hostility. He reiterated that the state government is focused on delivering good governance and tackling insecurity across communities.
“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 statement concluded.
The clarification comes amid rising political tension and reactions from stakeholders who viewed the governor’s initial remarks as undemocratic.
