Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has again insisted that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, must notify him before visiting Edo.
The governor said this on Tuesday, July 22, declaring that Obi must seek security clearance before entering the state.
Speaking during the launch of the New Edo Line Transport Service, Okpebholo stressed that protecting lives both of residents and visitors remains his primary responsibility.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who attended the event as a guest of honour, supported Okpebholo’s stance.
Wike argued that high-profile individuals like Obi must respect proper security protocols.
Governor Okpebholo explained that his statement was not a threat but a safety advisory.
“My job is to save lives, including Edo people and anyone visiting the state. If telling Mr Obi to notify me is a crime, then so be it,” he said firmly.
The governor also recalled a past incident where he ignored security advice and lost a police escort in an ambush.
“Back then, a police commissioner warned me to stay at the airport, but I left. I saw my escort gunned down right in front of me,” he recounted.
He added, “I’ve now given Mr Obi the same advice. If he listens, fine. If he prefers to post about it on social media, that’s his choice. I’ve done my part.”
While commissioning the New Edo Line, Governor Okpebholo thanked President Bola Tinubu for making the project possible.
He praised Edo residents for choosing progress and likened their decision to aligning with Lagos’s development model.
“Edo people have wandered for too long. Now they have chosen the right path,” he said.
FCT Minister Wike used the opportunity to remind Obi of past protocol.
He noted that Obi secured clearance before visiting him as Rivers State governor but failed to do so in Edo.
“I commend Edo people for supporting Okpebholo. The governor has shown he is focused and committed to delivering democracy’s dividends.
Even if the Supreme Court had ruled against him, his few months in office already proved his readiness to serve,” Wike said.
He concluded by hailing the New Edo Line as a step toward tackling insecurity and boosting public trust in government.
