Governor Okpebholo Warns Peter Obi: “don’t come to edo again without telling me”
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, cautioning him against visiting the state without prior notification to his office.
Governor Okpebholo made the remarks on Thursday during a political rally in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, organized to welcome defectors into the All Progressives Congress (APC), including the former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and current PDP lawmaker representing Esan Central/Esan West Federal Constituency.
The governor, who recently assumed office, stated unequivocally that Mr. Obi’s presence in Edo State without official communication or clearance would not be tolerated, adding that he could not guarantee Obi’s security in such circumstances.
“Peter Obi should not step into Edo again without informing me. He must seek permission before coming here. As governor of this state, I take the security of every visitor seriously, but I cannot guarantee anyone’s safety if they move around without coordination with the government,” Okpebholo said.
His comments are believed to be a response to Obi’s recent visit to the state, during which he reportedly held meetings with stakeholders and supporters of the Labour Party without officially notifying the state government.
Political observers say the governor’s remarks highlight rising political tensions in Edo as the 2024 governorship election draws near. The Labour Party, which gained significant ground during the 2023 general elections in the state, continues to be a strong opposition voice.
While Peter Obi has yet to respond officially to the governor’s comments, his supporters have taken to social media to criticize the statement, describing it as an attack on democratic freedom and freedom of movement.
Security experts and civil society organizations have also begun weighing in on the matter, urging both parties to de-escalate political rhetoric and prioritize peace and democratic engagement.
The political atmosphere in Edo remains heated, with various parties intensifying efforts to gain ground ahead of the upcoming polls.
