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Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, on Sunday clarified his earlier comments regarding Peter Obi’s visit to the state, saying it was not a threat but a matter of protocol.
Okpebholo had, during a defection rally in Uromi on Friday, stated that the former Anambra governor should not enter Edo State without proper clearance. However, in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor explained that his comments were a directive based on standard security procedures, not a political attack.
“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is my constitutional duty to protect the lives and property of both residents and visitors,” Okpebholo stated. “High-profile visits, particularly by politically exposed persons, must be communicated to the state government so that adequate security arrangements can be made.”
He warned that ignoring protocol could pose security risks, not only to the visitor but also to the general public, especially in light of increasing attacks on religious figures, including Catholic priests.
On the issue of public donations, the governor advised caution, noting the security and moral implications of such acts.
“Donations to churches, hospitals, or faith-based institutions, while well-intentioned, must be done discreetly and in coordination with security agencies to avoid making these institutions targets,” he said.
Quoting the Bible, the governor referenced Matthew 6:2–4: “When you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets… do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” He said this scriptural guidance is especially relevant in today’s security climate.
The statement also pointed out that Governor Okpebholo is not acting out of personal interest or political bias, unlike Peter Obi who, as governor of Anambra, reportedly detained Nasir El-Rufai during a visit to the state.
“The Edo State Government will not allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives,” the statement read. “Leaders must respect the protocols and security realities of the places they visit.”
