Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has denied issuing a threat to former presidential candidate Peter Obi over his recent visit to the state, insisting that his comments were misinterpreted.
Obi, who was in Benin on July 7, donated ₦15 million to the St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for ongoing projects. However, Okpebholo’s remarks following the visit — where he appeared to warn Obi against future visits without prior notice — sparked outrage among civil society groups and political commentators.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor said his comments were not a threat but a call for adherence to security protocol.
“It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi,” the statement read. “Rather, he emphasized the need for high-profile individuals to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before public engagements in the state.”
As the Chief Security Officer of the state, Okpebholo said it is his constitutional duty to ensure adequate security arrangements are in place, especially for visits that may attract large crowds or media attention.
The statement further highlighted that the warning was especially relevant given the recent surge in violent crimes, including attacks on religious leaders.
“This wisdom cannot be overstated in today’s volatile security environment,” the statement continued. “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.”
The state government urged critics not to politicize the governor’s remarks, stressing that the call for security coordination should be seen as responsible governance.
“Governor Okpebholo remains committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State for all,” Itua added. “His administration is working tirelessly to address the insecurity it inherited.”
