Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo distances himself from threats against Peter Obi, saying his call for security clearance was misunderstood and meant to uphold protocol, not intimidate.

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has clarified that he bears no personal animosity toward former Anambra Governor and Labour Party standard-bearer Peter Obi, emphasizing that his earlier comments were misunderstood and intended solely to reinforce security protocols not to threaten anyone

While addressing defectors to the APC on Friday, Okpebholo warned that Obi must seek security clearance before visiting Edo, citing concerns that Obi’s recent ₦15 million donation to St. Philomena Hospital in Benin City appeared to coincide with a resurgence in violence, including the deaths of three people. He stressed:

“That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million… After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance.”

Governor Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, addressed the backlash in a statement, insisting:

• The governor respects Peter Obi and all Nigerians.
• The comment was not a threat, but a reminder that high-profile visitors must coordinate with the state’s Chief Security Officer to safeguard residents and attendees.

Further confirmation came which reported that the Edo State government deemed Okpebholo’s actions as based on security protocols, not personal hostility.