Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has clarified that his remarks about Peter Obi requiring clearance before visiting the state were not intended as a threat, but rather a standard protocol directive.
The comment, made during a defection rally in Uromi on Friday, July 18, drew criticism after the governor said Obi should not enter the state without prior approval.
In a statement issued on Saturday, July 20, by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the state government emphasized that high-profile individuals, especially politically exposed persons, are expected to notify the state and obtain security clearance before holding public engagements in Edo.
“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, Governor Okpebholo has a constitutional duty to protect all residents and visitors. This includes ensuring that adequate security is in place during visits or events that may draw large crowds or media attention,” the statement said. “Failure to follow these protocols can create serious security risks, not only for the visitor but for citizens as well.”
The statement further cited the rise in abductions and attacks on religious leaders in Edo, especially clergy, as a reason for heightened caution. It warned that public donations to churches and other institutions—though well-intentioned—should be made discreetly and in consultation with security agencies to avoid exposing these institutions to threats.
Quoting the Bible, the governor’s office referenced Matthew 6:2–4 to underscore the value of private giving: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.”
The statement also drew a contrast between Okpebholo and former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, recalling that Obi once detained Nasir El-Rufai during a visit to Anambra.
Finally, the Edo State Government urged against politicizing the governor’s directive. “This is about safety and responsibility, not politics,” it concluded. “We expect all leaders, regardless of their status, to respect the protocols and security considerations of the areas they visit.”
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