Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has responded to criticisms trailing his recent comments asking 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi to seek security clearance before visiting the state.
Governor Okpebholo made the remark during a political rally held on Friday in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, warning that Obi’s safety could not be guaranteed without prior notice to the state government.
He also accused Obi of sparking a crisis during a recent visit to the state, during which he donated N15 million to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing in Benin.
The comments, widely seen as a veiled threat, drew swift backlash from supporters of Obi and others who described the statement as undemocratic and provocative.
However, in a statement released on Sunday through his chief press secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo clarified that his remark was borne out of genuine security concerns and not intended to threaten the former Anambra State governor.
“It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi,” the statement read.
“Rather, he emphasised the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.”
Okpebholo said his stance was informed by rising insecurity in Edo, including attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.
“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike,” the statement continued.
“This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention.”
The governor also advised that public donations to religious or social institutions, while commendable, should be carried out discreetly and with security consultations to prevent endangering such establishments.
Quoting the Bible, the statement referenced Matthew 6:2–4 to support the notion of discreet giving, saying, “In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated.”
The governor also dismissed comparisons between his comment and past political incidents, adding, “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.”
He urged critics not to twist his words for political gains, adding that the state government will not allow politically motivated actions to compromise public safety.
“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.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to building a secure and inclusive Edo State, welcoming all well-meaning Nigerians who adhere to established security protocols.
