Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has clarified his earlier remarks requiring Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, to seek clearance before visiting the state, stating that the directive was not a threat but a matter of protocol and security. The clarification follows controversy sparked by Okpebholo’s comments during a defection rally in Uromi on Friday, where he suggested Obi should not enter Edo without government approval.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor emphasized the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and obtain security clearance before engaging in public activities in Edo State. “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 read. It highlighted that such protocols are essential to prevent security vulnerabilities during high-profile visits that attract large crowds or media attention.
The statement pointed to recent incidents of abductions and attacks on religious leaders, including Catholic priests and Christian clerics, as a key reason for the governor’s stance. It noted that Edo State has faced tragic cases, such as the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy, underscoring the need for caution during public engagements.
Addressing allegations that Obi’s previous visit involved a donation linked to violence, the statement clarified that public giving, while noble, must be discreet and coordinated with security channels to avoid endangering institutions or their leaders. Quoting Matthew 6:2–4, the governor stressed the moral and spiritual importance of private giving, stating, “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.”
The statement also distanced Okpebholo from political motives, contrasting his approach with Obi’s actions as Anambra governor, when he detained Nasir El-Rufai during a visit. It urged leaders to respect security protocols and warned against twisting the governor’s concerns for political gain. “The State Government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives,” the statement concluded, calling for cooperation to ensure safety in Edo State.
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