Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has clarified his controversial remarks about former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, insisting his comments were misunderstood and emphasizing his respect for all political leaders.
The clarification comes after Okpebholo faced widespread criticism for warning Obi against visiting Edo State without security clearance during a reception for All Progressives Congress defectors on Friday.
In his original statement, the governor had condemned Obi’s recent visit to Benin City, linking it to a resurgence of violence in the area. “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,” Okpebholo had declared.
The remarks drew sharp condemnation from Labour Party Senators, the African Democratic Congress, the OBIdient Movement, and numerous Nigerians who viewed the statement as threatening and unconstitutional.
Responding to the backlash, Governor Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, issued a comprehensive statement on Sunday morning aimed at providing context and clarity to the governor’s position.
“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, not just to one’s immediate constituency but to the broader Nigerian family. This is the principle that guides Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership,” Itua stated.
The press secretary emphasized that Edo State remains welcoming to all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, faith, or creed. “It is important to state that Edo remains a home for all Nigerians, regardless of party affiliation, faith, or creed. As a leader elected to serve every Edo citizen, Governor Okpebholo is committed to politics of inclusivity, not exclusion. His administration is one of bridges, not walls,” he declared.
Itua insisted that the governor’s comments were rooted in official protocol rather than personal animosity. “Governor Okpebholo, a man of civility and courtesy, upholds the highest traditions of intergovernmental respect and protocol. In public events where protocol is critical, the order of recognition and speech must follow laid-down standards, especially where serving officials and guests of honour are present,” he explained.
The statement sought to reframe the controversy as a matter of procedural adherence rather than political hostility. “His clarification was a restatement of this norm — that while all visitors to the state are welcome and respected, official channels and roles must be observed to maintain structure and avoid unintended misinterpretations,” Itua noted.
Addressing the broader implications of the controversy, the press secretary stressed the governor’s respect for democratic plurality. “The beauty of Nigeria’s democracy lies in its plurality — in its allowance for differing voices, divergent views, and shared national aspirations. Governor Okpebholo holds this sacred. He respects every political leader, including Mr Peter Obi, and recognizes the role they play in deepening Nigeria’s democratic space. But, proper protocols must be adhered to by political leaders, including Obi.”
The statement also highlighted the governor’s achievements since taking office, citing progress in education, agriculture, road construction, and security. “In education, his three-pronged strategy — rebuilding infrastructure, recruiting teachers, and reforming pedagogy — is returning public schools to centers of excellence,” Itua detailed.
He concluded with a call for unity and understanding, stating: “The governor’s comment was not an attack. It was a statement borne out of official protocol, not personal bias. Let this moment not divide us but deepen our resolve for understanding. Let it remind us that even in disagreement, we must preserve our common humanity.”
The clarification represents an attempt by the Edo State government to defuse tensions while maintaining its position on protocol requirements for visiting political figures.
