The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has thrown his support behind Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo following the governor’s recent caution to Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, about obtaining security clearance before visiting the state.
Wike spoke on Tuesday in Benin City during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service, urging politicians to avoid politicizing issues of security and governance.
His remarks follow Governor Okpebholo’s warning during a recent rally, where he claimed Obi’s earlier visit during which he donated ₦15 million to a local nursing school triggered unrest that resulted in four deaths.
“If Peter Obi wants to come here, he should seek proper security clearance. We cannot guarantee his safety otherwise, and if anything happens, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking,” Okpebholo said at the time.
Backing this stance, Wike said it was not unreasonable for a governor to expect advance notice from visiting political figures, especially for security coordination.
“All I’m saying is, if you’re coming, tell me. I’m here to protect you,” Wike explained. “Nobody said ‘don’t come.’ But people politicize everything and pay others to distort facts on television.”
He warned that in a volatile political environment, bad actors could exploit visits to create instability and shift blame onto local authorities.
“Someone could cause harm and blame the governor, just because a coalition figure is coming. So, Governor, you’re right,” he said.
Wike also criticized what he described as “populist theatrics” by some politicians trying to gain public sympathy.
“This isn’t the place for a presidential candidate to be serving food just to appear humble. Was he doing that when he was governor? No!” he declared.
He called such actions disingenuous, referencing promises like flying commercial flights if elected as unrealistic.
“Do you think that’s sincere? Nigerians enjoy being deceived. They overlook those who speak plainly,” Wike added.
Urging Governor Okpebholo to stand firm, Wike said criticism is part of leadership.
“If no one talks about you, you’re not doing your job as governor. If I wake up one day and no one’s mentioning my name, I know something’s wrong.”
He concluded by affirming that public support not public opinion is what truly defines leadership.
“What matters is: do your people stand with you? If yes, keep going.”
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