The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has clarified that his recent comments regarding former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, were “misunderstood” and that he holds respect for everyone, including Mr Obi. This clarification comes after his earlier remarks drew widespread condemnation from various political groups and the public.
Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, in a statement released to Naija News on Sunday, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that Edo State is a welcoming home for all Nigerians, irrespective of their political affiliation, faith, or creed. Itua stated that the Governor is committed to “politics of inclusivity, not exclusion,” and that his administration focuses on building “bridges, not walls.”
The controversy stems from Okpebholo’s statements made on Friday while receiving defectors to the All Progressives Congress (APC). During the event, the Governor had reportedly warned Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, against visiting Edo State without prior security clearance. He specifically condemned Obi’s recent visit to Benin City, alleging it coincided with a resurgence of violence.
Governor Okpebholo was quoted as saying, “That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance.”
These remarks quickly drew strong condemnation from Labour Party Senators, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the OBIdient Movement, and numerous Nigerians, prompting the need for clarification from the Governor’s office.
Fred Itua, in his statement, insisted that while Governor Okpebholo’s comments were not an attack, they were “borne out of official protocol, not personal bias.” He stressed the importance of political leaders, including Obi, adhering to proper protocols.
“At every point in the journey of leadership, those in authority must provide not only stewardship but also clarity. The weight of governance often demands that decisions, words, and actions reflect a deep sense of responsibility,” Itua’s statement read, drawing a parallel to the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s reflection on involvement.
Itua further elaborated that Governor Okpebholo’s words and actions are “deeply rooted in duty, context, and commitment to Edo people,” and that his controversial statement was made in a setting demanding “clarity of roles and respect for official order.”
The Chief Press Secretary concluded by reiterating that “Governor Okpebholo, a man of civility and courtesy, upholds the highest traditions of intergovernmental respect and protocol,” emphasizing the need for adherence to laid-down standards in public events, especially where serving officials and guests of honor are present.
