The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has come out strongly in support of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over the latter’s insistence that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, should notify state authorities before visiting.
Wike, while speaking in Benin City as the guest of honour during the commissioning of the New Edo Line transport company, advised the governor to focus on his development strides and ignore distractions.
He said Governor Okpebholo was right to demand prior notice from Obi, citing issues of protocol and security.
Taking a direct swipe at the former Anambra State governor, Wike recalled that during his time as Rivers State governor, Obi never visited without first seeking clearance.
He argued that such protocol is standard, especially for prominent political figures.
“When I was Governor of Rivers State, Peter Obi never entered my state without informing me,” Wike said.
“That is protocol. You don’t just walk into another man’s territory—especially when you’re a major political figure—without giving notice. It’s not about politics or ego; it’s about order and security.”
Wike further noted that Obi, as a key figure in the opposition and under the African Democratic Congress coalition banner, should have extended such a courtesy to Governor Okpebholo to allow for necessary logistics and security planning.
He stressed that the safety of high-profile visitors is ultimately the responsibility of the sitting governor, and failure to notify state authorities could pose security risks and create administrative tension.
“If anything happens to him while in Edo and the governor is unaware of his presence, who takes the blame? The governor. That’s why you must follow due process and respect the office,” Wike stated emphatically.
His remarks add weight to the controversy sparked by Governor Okpebholo’s earlier warning to Obi, as political temperature continues to rise in Edo ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
Commending Okpebholo’s early achievements, Wike said, “I thank God for the people of Edo who stood firm during the last election. Governor Okpebholo hit the ground running like President Bola Tinubu.
“In just eight months, he has delivered impactful projects, like the revival of Edo Line, which directly addresses insecurity and provides affordable transport for women, students, and ordinary citizens.”
Wike praised the governor’s commitment and performance, noting that “leaders who perform well never need to fear returning home after their tenure.”
In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continuous support, which he said has translated into tangible development across Edo State.
He pledged to sustain the tempo of governance and development.
On the controversy surrounding his comments on Peter Obi’s visit to Edo State, Okpebholo insisted his remarks were misunderstood.
“What I said was advice, not a threat. As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is my responsibility to protect not only the people of Edo but also all visitors to the state. Asking Mr Obi to notify me before any visit is for his safety,” he clarified.
Recalling a harrowing experience, he added, “When I entered Edo during the Godwin Obaseki administration, I was advised to stay at the airport for my safety. I ignored the warning, and tragically, one of my security escorts was gunned down in my presence. That’s why I issued the advisory.”
The Governor reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu and vowed to deliver over 2.5 million votes from Edo in the 2027 election.
“Edo is solidly behind the President because he has shown us love and support,” he said.
The event was attended by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, top government officials including the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor; Head of Service, Dr Anthony Okungbowa; Chief of Staff, Gani Audu; and former deputy governors Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen.
Also present were retired military officer Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, security representatives, and APC stakeholders, among others.
The re-launch of the New Edo Line is expected to enhance interstate connectivity, reduce travel costs, and boost economic activities across the state.
