Following widespread backlash over Governor Monday Okpebholo’s comment directing Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to seek clearance before visiting Edo State, the state government has clarified that the governor’s statement should not be misconstrued.
In a statement released by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the government emphasized that Okpebholo’s remarks were made purely on the grounds of security protocol and not a personal attack on Peter Obi. Itua said, “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.”
The controversy stems from a statement made by Okpebholo on Friday, July 18, 2025, while receiving Marcus Onobun—House of Representatives member for Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben—who recently decamped from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Okpebholo had advised that Obi must obtain clearance from his office before visiting the state.
The governor’s office, however, insists the directive is rooted in legitimate concerns over growing insecurity, especially targeted attacks and kidnappings involving religious leaders, including Catholic priests and other Christian clerics.
Itua concluded that while Edo State remains open to all Nigerians, public figures must adhere to security protocols, and urged critics not to twist the governor’s intentions for political gain.
