The Edo State Government has clarified Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent comments regarding the visit of former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party leader, Mr. Peter Obi, amid rising public discourse and media speculation.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the state government emphasised that Governor Okpebholo did not threaten Mr. Obi but underscored the importance of security coordination for high-profile visits.
“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional duty to safeguard lives and property,” the statement read. “Politically exposed persons are expected to seek security clearance before embarking on public engagements in the state.”
The clarification comes after remarks made by the Governor sparked controversy, with some interpreting his comments as politically motivated or antagonistic. However, the Edo State Government insists the Governor’s concerns were rooted in security intelligence and recent incidents involving attacks on religious leaders in the state.
Referencing recent abductions and killings of clergy members, the Governor cautioned against high-profile public donations or events held without security consultation. He also cited biblical principles encouraging discretion in charitable acts, invoking Matthew 6:2–4 to support his position.
In what appeared to be a pointed remark, the Governor said he was “not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.” However, the state government maintains that the broader message is one of prudence and non-partisanship.
The statement urged political leaders and visitors to respect local protocols to avoid creating security vulnerabilities. “We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit,” it said.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to a “safe and inclusive Edo State” and called on all Nigerians to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and order across the state.
