Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has dismissed allegations that he issued threats against former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, following the latter’s recent visit to the state.
Obi had visited Benin City on July 7, 2025, to donate ₦15 million towards a development project at the St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences. However, remarks made by Governor Okpebholo shortly after the visit — linking it to a resurgence of insecurity and warning against similar visits without prior notice — triggered criticism from civil society groups and public figures, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), who called on the governor to retract the statement and apologize.
In response, a statement released Sunday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, clarified that Governor Okpebholo’s comments were misrepresented. According to the statement, the governor was not issuing a threat but rather calling attention to the importance of proper security coordination for visits by high-profile political figures.
“It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi,” the statement read. “He merely emphasized the need for politically exposed persons to seek appropriate security clearance before engaging in public activities within the state.”
As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, Governor Okpebholo noted that such protocols are vital to ensuring public safety, especially in light of growing concerns over attacks and abductions involving religious leaders and other prominent individuals.
The statement also referenced a controversial 2009 incident involving Peter Obi as then-Governor of Anambra State, when Nasir El-Rufai was reportedly detained during a visit — a remark interpreted by some as a subtle swipe at Obi.
The Edo State Government urged the public not to politicize the matter, maintaining that its position stems from a commitment to safety and order, not political rivalry.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to a secure and inclusive Edo State, calling on all political actors to respect existing protocols to avoid unnecessary tension.
