It is a shame Peter Obi is always serving food to deceive people – Wike

By Jethro Ibileke

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has thrown his weight behind Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s call for Peter Obi, to seek security clearance before visiting the state.

He spoke during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Edo State on Tuesday.

Wike emphasized that such protocols were essential for high-profile figures to ensure their safety, drawing from his experience as Rivers State governor, where he provided logistics for Obi’s visits after being notified.

He stressed that failure to coordinate with state authorities could leave governors accountable for any incidents, asserting that Okpebholo’s stance was a matter of responsibility, not hostility.

Wike also criticized what he described as Obi’s populist tactics, particularly referencing a recent event where Obi was seen serving food at a charity function in Imo State.

He questioned the sincerity of such actions, suggesting they were performative gestures aimed at portraying humility ahead of elections.

Wike argued that Nigerians are often swayed by such displays, like promises to use commercial flights as president, which he deemed unrealistic due to security constraints.

He contrasted Obi’s current behaviour with his tenure as Anambra governor, implying that these actions emerged only during his presidential campaign.

The minister clarified that Okpebholo’s directive was not a ban on Obi’s visits but a call for proper coordination to ensure safety, accusing critics of twisting the governor’s words for political gain.

Wike’s remarks come amid controversy over Okpebholo’s earlier statement linking Obi’s July 7 visit to Benin City, where he donated ₦15 million to a nursing school, to subsequent unrest.