Edo Govt: Okpebholo’s Remarks on Obi Visit Misunderstood, Security Was Priority

The Edo State Government has refuted claims that Governor Monday Okpebholo threatened former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party leader, Mr. Peter Obi, over his recent visit to the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the government described the circulating reports as “misinterpretations,” insisting that the Governor’s comments were rooted in constitutional responsibilities and not political hostility.
Governor Okpebholo, the statement said, merely reiterated the need for all high-profile individuals — especially politically exposed persons — to obtain proper security clearance before undertaking public engagements in Edo.
“As Chief Security Officer of the state, the Governor has a duty to protect both residents and visitors,” the statement read. “Ignoring such protocols opens dangerous security gaps that could put many lives at risk.”
Citing the spate of targeted attacks on religious figures and public institutions across the state, including the abduction of seminarians and clergy in past years, the government warned that high-visibility public acts — such as unsolicited donations or uncoordinated visits — could unintentionally make certain institutions more vulnerable to criminal activity.
The statement emphasized that public giving should be approached with “discretion, wisdom, and respect for security intelligence,” invoking Matthew 6:2–4 to support its point: “Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.”
In what appeared to be a pointed jab, the statement added, “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor, once detained Nasir El-Rufai during a visit to Anambra.”
The Edo Government stressed that Governor Okpebholo’s message was not aimed at stoking political tension but rather enforcing safety protocols in the interest of public order.
“We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the realities of the environment they visit. Edo remains open to all Nigerians — but responsibility must come with access,” the government noted.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration, the statement concluded, remains committed to restoring peace and inclusiveness in Edo, and welcomes all Nigerians — provided proper procedures are followed.