I didn’t threaten Peter Obi, can’t detain him like he did to El-Rufai – Gov Okpebholo

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has clarified that his recent statement concerning Peter Obi’s visit to the state was not a threat, but rather a matter of adhering to standard protocol procedures.

The governor addressed the controversy that followed his remarks during a political rally in Uromi on Friday, where he said the former Anambra State governor should not enter Edo without proper clearance.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo emphasized the importance of political figures and other high-profile visitors notifying the state government before undertaking public activities within Edo.

“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike. This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention. When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats,” the statement read.

Itua also cited the security challenges facing the state, particularly targeted attacks on religious leaders.

“Governor Okpebholo’s position is particularly relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics,” he added.

Addressing public donations made during visits, the statement urged discretion and consultation with security agencies to avoid unintended consequences.

“Edo State has witnessed its share of these tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy in recent years. Public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger.

“The Governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in both security intelligence and moral responsibility.

“The Holy Scripture reminds us that giving is best done in private, as Jesus admonished us in Matthew 6: 2 – 4 that, ‘when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpet…but when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.’”

The statement went on to draw a comparison with past events involving other political figures, saying, “In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated. Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.”

Itua warned against politicizing the governor’s remarks and reiterated that security concerns must not be ignored.

“Furthermore, the Governor’s concerns should not be twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points. The State Government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives. We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.”