Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has stood by his earlier remark requesting former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, to inform him ahead of any visit to Edo, insisting that he has no regrets over the advisory.
Speaking in Benin City on Tuesday during the official inauguration of the revitalised Edo Line Transport Company, Okpebholo clarified that his comment was a matter of protocol, not a threat, and should not be taken out of context.
“What I said was a simple piece of advice—that Peter Obi should not come to Edo without notifying me. As the Chief Security Officer of the state, that is a standard protocol. If advising him to inform me is seen as a crime, so be it. I have no regrets,” the governor said.
He explained that his concern was rooted in personal experience, recalling a tragic incident in 2024 when he ignored a similar advisory and lost his police orderly, Inspector Akor Onu, to gunfire.
“The Commissioner of Police had asked me to stay at the airport when I arrived in Benin during the previous administration. I refused. Moments later, at the gate, my orderly was shot dead in my presence. That painful event still informs how seriously I take security protocols.”
Okpebholo reiterated that his message was for the benefit of everyone and not intended to provoke controversy.
“I don’t understand the outrage. Is it because I said they don’t have ‘shishi’? Didn’t they claim that themselves?” he asked, referring to previous remarks by Obi’s supporters about operating with limited resources.
On the launch of Edo Line, the governor attributed the revival of the state-owned transport company to improved federal allocations and credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the enabling environment.
“This project became a reality thanks to increased federal support and the leadership of President Tinubu. Without a father figure like him, this dream wouldn’t have materialised,” he said.
“The President has demonstrated real commitment to Edo State and the South-South. His Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a slogan—it’s bringing tangible results.”
Okpebholo also expressed gratitude to the people of Edo for electing him, calling the moment a new dawn for the state.
“The people of Edo have endured difficult times, but today marks a turning point. Their support affirms that the state is on the path to transformation.”
Speaking at the event, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, backed Okpebholo’s stance on security protocols, emphasizing that high-profile individuals must follow procedure when visiting a state.
Wike recounted that Peter Obi sought formal clearance before visiting Rivers State during his own tenure as governor, and said he was surprised that Obi failed to do the same in Edo.
“Security protocol is essential. When Obi visited me as governor, he followed due process. I wonder why that was not done here,” Wike said.
Commending Okpebholo’s performance, Wike added, “I associate only with leaders who deliver. You’ve addressed key concerns for students, women, and travellers. Your actions show true support for the President.”
He concluded by expressing confidence in Okpebholo’s legacy, saying, “Your achievements will give you the boldness to always return home with pride, even after your tenure ends.”
