Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo, has denied issuing a threat to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, following his recent visit to the South-South state.
Obi had visited Benin on July 7, 2025, and donated N15 million to St Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for the completion of projects in the school.
However, the Edo governor had condemned Obi’s visit to the state, insisting that it coincided with the resurgence of violence in the state.
He warned the former Anambra State governor not to visit the state again without prior notice or face the consequences.
Okpebholo’s remarks attracted a lot of backlash and condemnation from prominent Nigerians and social media commentators.
But in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor claimed that his remarks were misinterpreted.
He emphasised that as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it was his constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike.
Okpebholo said that he did not issue any form of threat to Obi but rather emphasised the need for high-profile individuals to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.
The statement added that Okpebholo’s position was particularly relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.
It noted that in today’s volatile security environment, the governor’s call for coordination and orderliness should be seen as a measure of responsible governance, not hostility.
The state government also said it would not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives of the people.
The state government restated it’s administration’s commitment in working tirelessly to address the insecurity challenges and called on high-profile individuals to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas to ensure a safe and inclusive Edo State for all.
