Edo Governor Clarifies Remarks On Peter Obi, Says It Was About Security, Not Threat

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has clarified that his recent comments about Labour Party presidential candidate and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, were not intended as a threat but as a call for adherence to security protocols.

The clarification comes after backlash followed his remarks at a defection rally in Uromi last Friday, where he said Obi should not enter Edo State without proper clearance from the government.

In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo explained that his comments were rooted in his constitutional responsibilities as the state’s Chief Security Officer.

“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional duty to protect the lives and property of residents and visitors alike,” the statement said. “This includes ensuring adequate security arrangements during high-profile visits that may attract large crowds or media attention.”

The governor’s spokesperson also noted the increased threats faced by religious leaders and public figures across the country, citing past abductions and killings of clergy in Edo State as reasons for caution.

On the issue of donations made during such visits, Okpebholo advised that while charitable gestures are welcome, they should be done discreetly and in coordination with security agencies to avoid attracting unwanted attention to sensitive institutions.

“Public giving, especially in volatile times, must be handled carefully. The governor’s advice aligns with biblical guidance in Matthew 6:2–4, which emphasizes private charity over public display,” the statement added.

Governor Okpebholo also referenced a past incident where Peter Obi, during his tenure as Anambra governor, detained former FCT Minister Nasir El-Rufai during a visit to the state—highlighting that security concerns are not unique to Edo.

He called for political leaders and their supporters to avoid politicizing the issue and to respect local protocols during visits.

“The State Government will not fold its arms and allow politically driven actions to compromise public safety. Leaders, regardless of their stature, are expected to comply with the security and protocol standards of any region they visit,” the statement concluded.