Okpebholo adamant on ‘security advice’ to Peter Obi, gets Wike’s backing

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo on Tuesday insisted that his assertion that the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi should not to come to the state without informing him was not a threat, but an advice that is meant for his own good.

Okpebholo who spoke at the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service received the support of Minister of FCT Minister, Nyson Wike who was the guest of honour at the event on the advice to the former LP presidential candidate.

“What I said was to advice to him and it was never a threat. Do not come to Edo without telling me. This is a clear statement. I am not here to only work for Edo people but also in government to protect Edo people and visitors coming to the State,” the Governor who has come under heavy criticisms on his earlier order to Obi said.

“I only told Mr. Peter Obi to notify me as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State when coming to the State. Is that a crime?,” Okpebholo said.

He recalled the incident that led to the death of one of his security details. “I remember when I came into Edo State during the administration of Godwin Obaseki.

“The Commissioner of Police asked me to remain at the Benin Airport when I arrived at Benin City, and I was attacked at the airport as one of my security guards was shot dead right in my presence.

“I had a security report and advised the former governor of Anambra State to inform me whenever he is coming to Edo State. If he likes, let him take my advice.

Also speaking at the event, Wike backed Okpebholo on security protocols for high profile Nigerians like the former Anambra governor.

Wike insisted that high-profile Nigerians like Peter Obi need to inform the Governor of any State about their visit to ensure their security is guaranteed.

He noted that when Obi visited him while he was the Governor of Rivers States, he secured a permit before embarking on that journey.

He wondered why he did not observe the same protocol when he visited Edo State.

“I thank God for the people of Edo State for standing firm during the election of Monday Okpebholo. The Governor has prepared himself as far as I am concerned. He is focused on making sure he delivers the dividends of democracy to the people.

“The Governor refused to be distracted, and in eight months, he has done so much for Edo people. Just like what Mr. President did immediately, he was inaugurated. He hit the ground running. That is what Senator Okpebholo has done today by making sure there are no excuses.

“Assuming that the Supreme Court had ruled against him, what it would have meant is that for a few months, he showed the people of Edo that he was committed to work for them.

“I do not identify with failure. I identify with people who mean well for their people. One of the things that you have done for bringing back this new Edo line is to solve the problem of insecurity.

“You have also resolved the problem of students, women and men traveling. You have actually shown your support for our President in practical terms in performance. Your performance will give you the confidence to always come home even after your tenure as Governor.

“I have come to identify with you because you mean well for the people of Edo State. Leadership is not easy because people will throw all kinds of things at you.”

Governor Okpebholo had also in his remarks, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, which, according to him, continuously translated into growth and development for Edo people.

He commended Edo people for the opportunity given to him as their Governor and expressed readiness to serve them, as they will continue to see and experience remarkable projects that will touch their lives for the better.

Governor Okpebholo said he will continue with his developmental projects that will change Edo State and improve the lives of Edo people for the better. He promised not to be distracted with criticism coming from the social media, following his statement on Mr. Peter Obi.

“I will continue to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because he loves Edo so much, and Edo people are enjoying his support, which has transformed into developmental strides,” he noted

He assured the President that in 2027, Edo State will give him 2.5 million votes to ensure he returns for a second term in office to continue his good works of development.

Former governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomole; and other top government dignitaries across the country joined in the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service.

Dignitaries at the commissioning include the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku; Secretary to Edo State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor; Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Gani Audu; former Deputy Governors of Edo State, Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen; Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd); Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; APC stakeholders; representatives of security agencies, market women, youths, transportation stakeholders, amongst others.