The Edo State Government has clarified recent remarks made by Governor Monday Okpebholo regarding the visit of Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, stating that his comments were not intended as a threat.
Governor Okpebholo had sparked controversy after warning that Obi should obtain security clearance before entering the state. He linked Obi’s June 7 visit to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences where he donated ₦15 million to a subsequent outbreak of violence that left three people dead.
“That man who claims he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did it come from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not enter Edo without security clearance,” Okpebholo said on July 18.
However, in a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the government insisted the comments were misunderstood.
“The Governor did not issue any threat to Mr. Obi. His remarks simply underscore the importance of high-profile individuals especially those politically exposed obtaining security clearance before public engagements in Edo,” the statement read.
According to Itua, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, Governor Okpebholo is constitutionally obligated to ensure public safety during visits that may attract crowds or media attention.
He added that failure to observe proper security protocols could endanger not only the visitors but also local residents.
The statement referenced the recent spike in attacks and kidnappings of religious leaders, particularly targeting Catholic priests and Christian clerics, noting that the state has witnessed several tragic incidents in recent years.
On public donations, Itua advised discretion, citing both security concerns and biblical counsel. “While donations to churches, hospitals, and faith-based institutions are commendable, they must be handled with care to avoid exposing these places and their leaders to harm,” he said.
Quoting Matthew 6:2–4, he noted that giving in private aligns with both spiritual and security wisdom.
Itua also drew a sharp contrast between Governor Okpebholo’s approach and past incidents, saying, “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Anambra State Governor, once detained Nasir El-Rufai during a visit.”
He warned political actors against twisting the governor’s remarks for political gain, emphasizing that the government will not allow actions that could compromise public safety.
“Governor Okpebholo remains committed to building a secure and inclusive Edo State. His call for coordination and adherence to protocol is a mark of responsible leadership not hostility,” the statement concluded.
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