Edo Government Clarifies Governor Okpebholo’s Comment on Peter Obi’s Visit Amid Security Concerns
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Benin City, July 21, 2025 — The Edo State Government has clarified Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent remarks concerning the visit of former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, following widespread backlash and political misinterpretations.
Governor Okpebholo, during a political event held on Friday, July 18, was quoted as directing Peter Obi to seek clearance before visiting the state — a statement that quickly drew sharp criticism across social media and mainstream platforms.
In a swift response, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, issued an official statement titled “Edo State Open to All Nigerians, But Security Protocols Must Be Followed.” The government stressed that the Governor’s remarks were based solely on security protocols and not intended as a threat or political attack.
“The Governor did not issue any form of ban on Mr. Peter Obi. He simply emphasized the need for all high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to obtain proper security clearance before engaging in public activities in Edo State,” Itua stated.
The government cited a history of insecurity in the region, including abductions of religious leaders, as a reason for the enforcement of these measures. Itua referenced a past incident where Peter Obi, during his tenure as Anambra State Governor, detained Nasir El-Rufai—a reminder of the importance of security protocol and mutual respect among public officials.
He added that public donations to churches, hospitals, and faith-based institutions must be approached with caution to avoid making such groups vulnerable to targeted attacks. Quoting Matthew 6:2–4, Itua urged discretion and emphasized the governor’s focus on responsible governance in a volatile security climate.
In a separate statement, Barrister Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, Publicity Secretary of the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC), backed the Governor’s position. He stated that while Nigerians have the right to free movement, no constitutional right is absolute, especially when public safety is involved.
“Governor Okpebholo did not ban Peter Obi from Edo State. Any suggestion of such is a false narrative. His remarks were strictly about standard security procedures applied to all high-profile visits,” Uwadiae-Igbinigie explained.
He clarified that the call for prior notice was not exclusive to Mr. Obi but has been observed for dignitaries across party lines, citing routine intelligence and risk assessment as critical components of modern governance, particularly in politically active states like Edo.
Referencing a previous visit by Peter Obi that reportedly strained the state’s security infrastructure, the APC spokesperson insisted that the governor’s intentions were misunderstood and unnecessarily politicized.
“This is not about politics but about ensuring public safety and order. The Governor has a constitutional duty to protect all residents and visitors, regardless of political affiliation,” he said.
The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming all well-meaning Nigerians, provided that proper security and procedural protocols are observed. The administration reiterated that Governor Okpebholo remains committed to democratic principles, peaceful coexistence, and maintaining law and order across the state.
