Edo State’s Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern directive to Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, insisting that he must obtain prior approval before setting foot in the state. This warning from Governor Okpebholo is the second instance where an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led state has cautioned Peter Obi over state visits, including those said to be for humanitarian reasons. Speaking to his political supporters in a widely circulated social media video, Governor Okpebholo stressed that Obi’s safety would not be guaranteed if he entered Edo State without officially notifying the government. “This is for the man who claims he has no ‘shishi’ (money),” Governor Okpebholo stated. “There’s a new sheriff in town. He cannot just stroll into Edo without informing me first. If he does, his security won’t be assured. Should anything happen to him, he will have himself to blame. I’m not speaking in jest.” The governor also referenced Obi’s earlier visit to Edo, where the former presidential candidate reportedly donated ₦15 million. He raised concerns about Obi’s financial transparency, questioning the source of the funds. “He visited and gave out ₦15 million. But this is the same man claiming he has no money. Where did the money come from?” Okpebholo queried. “After his visit, there was unrest in Benin, resulting in three fatalities. That’s why I’m issuing this warning — Obi must inform me before coming into Edo.” This confrontation follows a similar situation in April when Obi was warned against visiting Benue State. During that time, his visit was aimed at supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by herdsmen-related attacks.
