Governor Monday Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has denied issuing threats to former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, following the latter’s recent visit to Benin City.

Obi had, on July 7, 2025, visited the Edo State capital, where he donated ₦15 million to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences to support ongoing development projects. The visit, however, drew criticism from Governor Okpebholo, who reportedly expressed displeasure over Obi’s presence coinciding with renewed violence in the state, warning him not to return without proper notification.

The governor’s comments were met with widespread condemnation from prominent Nigerians and social media users. In response, Okpebholo, through a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted.

“The governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi,” the statement read. “Rather, he emphasised the need for high-profile individuals, especially politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance before engaging in public events within the state.”

According to the statement, the governor’s concern was rooted in his constitutional duty as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State to protect both residents and visitors.

“When security protocols are ignored, it creates vulnerabilities not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be exposed to unnecessary risk,” the statement added.

The state government also referenced the growing trend of targeted attacks and abductions of religious leaders as justification for heightened caution around public appearances by prominent figures.

“In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated,” the statement noted. “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as governor of Anambra, detained Nasir El-Rufai during a visit. His concerns should not be twisted into political mischief.”

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to peace and security, the statement urged all public figures to respect existing security frameworks to ensure public safety.

“Governor Okpebholo remains committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State. His call for coordination should be viewed as a measure of responsible governance rather than an act of hostility,” it concluded.