By our Reporter
Monday Okpebholo, Edo State Governor, has issued a stern warning to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, demanding that he seek official clearance before entering the state for any reason — including humanitarian missions.
Speaking to a crowd of political supporters in a now-viral video, the governor declared that Obi’s safety would not be guaranteed if he visits Edo without first notifying the state government.
“This message is for the man who says he has no ‘shishi’ (money),” Okpebholo said. “There’s a new sheriff in town. He can’t just come into Edo without informing me. If he does and anything happens to him, he’ll have himself to blame. I’m not joking.”
The governor accused Obi of hypocrisy over a past visit where the former Anambra governor reportedly donated ₦15 million. Okpebholo questioned the source of the funds, saying, “He came the other day and gave out ₦15 million. A man who says he has no money—where did that come from? After that visit, there was unrest in Benin and three people lost their lives.”
This marks the second time Obi has been cautioned by an APC-led state. In April, a similar situation played out in Benue State, where Obi was reportedly advised against visiting an IDP camp affected by herdsmen attacks.
The remarks have sparked debate online, with critics calling the governor’s stance politically motivated, while others argue it’s a necessary security protocol.
As of now, there has been no official response from Peter Obi or his camp.
