It’s About Security, Not Politics – Edo Governor Clarifies Comment About Peter Obi 

Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has cleared the air about his recent comment concerning Peter Obi in Edo State, saying it was not meant as a threat but a reminder to follow normal security procedures.

His statement sparked mixed reactions after he spoke at a political rally in Uromi last Friday. 

At the event, he mentioned that Labour Party’s presidential candidate and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, should not enter Edo State without getting clearance from the government.

On Sunday, the governor’s spokesperson, Fred Itua, released a statement to explain the governor’s real message. According to him, Okpebholo was simply doing his job as the Chief Security Officer of the state.

“It’s the governor’s duty to protect everyone living in or visiting Edo,” the statement said. “When a public figure like Peter Obi visits, especially for an event that may draw crowds and media attention, security plans must be in place.”

The governor’s office also pointed out that threats to religious leaders and public figures have been increasing across the country.

Edo State has seen cases of kidnapping and killings, including tragic events involving church leaders and seminarians. Because of this, Governor Okpebholo believes it’s necessary to be extra careful.

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He also gave advice about public donations during such visits. While he said these donations are generous, he recommended that they should be done quietly and with the help of security agencies. This way, the institutions receiving the help won’t become targets.

Quoting the Bible (Matthew 6:2–4), the statement added that giving should be private, not done for show.

Governor Okpebholo even recalled that when Peter Obi was governor of Anambra State, he once detained former FCT Minister Nasir El-Rufai during a visit. He used this to explain that taking security seriously is not a new idea.

He urged political leaders and their supporters not to twist the matter into a political fight. According to him, every leader no matter how popular should respect the rules and security procedures of any state they visit.

“The Edo State government will not watch while political visits put public safety at risk,” the statement concluded.

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