‘It’s not a threat’ — Okpebholo insists Obi must seek clearance before visiting Edo

Monday Okpebholo, the Edo state governor, has reiterated his directive that Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), must notify him before visiting the state.

Okpebholo said the instruction was a security measure — not a threat — and insisted it was his responsibility to protect all residents and visitors in Edo.

Last week, the governor warned Obi not to return to the state without clearance, linking a previous visit by the LP chieftain to a security breach that allegedly resulted in the death of three people.

The comment has drawn backlash, with critics accusing the governor of attempting to intimidate political opponents.

Speaking on Tuesday at the unveiling of Edo Line buses in Benin City, the state capital, Okpebholo maintained his stance.

“If telling him (Peter Obi) to notify me of his coming as the chief security officer of the state is a crime, so be it. I have no regrets about what I have said, and I repeat it: before you come into Edo State, notify me. It is not a threat,” he said.

“I had a security report and advised the former governor of Anambra state to inform me whenever he is coming to Edo State. If he likes, let him take my advice.

“I went through this same process. I was advised when I came to the airport before the election by the then commissioner of police to remain at the airport. I ignored the advice and went out. My police escort was shot dead before my eyes.”

Taking a swipe at those criticising him, the governor said people were overreacting to his simple instruction.

“Just one word, and everybody was crying. I simply said, ‘Don’t come to Edo without telling me’,” he said.

“I don’t know which one is paining them. Is it because I said they don’t have shishi? Didn’t they say they don’t have shishi, so why are they crying?” he asked.

Despite the outrage, the governor appears unmoved, placing security concerns above political sentiments.