… Obi must respect protocol to protect Edo people, Says Ohonbamu
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has supported the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, over the enforcement of security protocols for high-profile visitors to the state, including former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi.
Wike, who was the guest of honour at the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City on Tuesday, said that public figures must notify state governors of their visits as a matter of protocol and personal safety.
He revealed that during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State, Peter Obi sought and obtained clearance before visiting him, and wondered why the same courtesy was not extended to Governor Okpebholo.
“Peter Obi informed me before visiting Rivers State when I was governor. Why didn’t he do the same in Edo? It’s not about politics, it’s about security. A Governor must be aware of who is coming into his state, especially someone of Obi’s stature,” Wike stated.
While commending Okpebholo’s performance within eight months in office, Wike praised the Governor for staying focused on development and governance despite distractions.
He described the revived Edo Line transport service as a strategic solution to insecurity and mobility challenges, adding that it reflects Okpebholo’s commitment to practical leadership.
“I do not identify with failure. I align with those who perform. This New Edo Line will ease travel for students, traders and the public. It’s a step that strengthens security and development in Edo State,” Wike noted.
Governor Okpebholo in his remarks appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to Edo State, which he said is manifesting in visible developmental strides.
He said that his comment regarding Peter Obi was not a threat, but a security advisory borne out of past experiences.
“I only advised Mr Peter Obi, and it was not a threat. As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, I have a duty to protect everyone, including visitors. That’s why I said he should inform me when he’s coming. Is that a crime?” the Governor queried.
He recalled a harrowing experience where one of his security aides was shot dead at the Benin Airport during a past administration, stressing the importance of proactive security coordination.
Reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu, Governor Okpebholo pledged to mobilise 2.5 million votes from Edo State for the President’s re-election in 2027.
He assured residents that more impactful projects were underway.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by top dignitaries including Senator Adams Oshiomhole; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku; Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor; Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa; Chief of Staff, Gani Audu; former Deputy Governors Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen; Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd); Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, APC leaders, transport operators, market women, youth groups, and security agencies.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, has said that Governor Okpebholo’s advice to Mr. Peter Obi to observe proper security protocol when visiting Edo State was in the interest of public safety.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s “Morning Brief,” Ohonbamu explained that the Governor, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, has a constitutional responsibility to safeguard all residents and visitors.
“The Governor advised Peter Obi, a former Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to notify the state government of his visits. This is standard practice and a matter of security, not politics,” Ohonbamu said.
According to him, the movement of large crowds that often accompany Obi’s visits has the potential to incite tension and overwhelm local security structures.
He noted that such visits should be coordinated with the government to allow for proper planning, crowd control, and the safety of everyone involved.
He recalled that when Governor Okpebholo visited Kano State, he duly informed the Kano State Governor and was received with minimal entourage, allowing the host state to provide all necessary security arrangements.
“Peter Obi is a former Governor and understands these protocols. The outrage over Governor Okpebholo’s comments is unwarranted. If anything goes wrong during his visit, the blame will fall on the Edo State government,” the Commissioner added.
Ohonbamu further accused members of the “Obidient” political movement of twisting the Governor’s security advice for partisan ends.
“You don’t enter a state, gather crowds and hold political engagements without notifying the authorities. The Governor simply asked for a basic security measure to ensure peace. There’s no threat, just responsible governance,” he said.
He emphasised that Governor Okpebholo remains committed to protecting lives and property in Edo State and will continue to take proactive measures to prevent any form of violence or disorder, regardless of political affiliations.
