Monday Okpebholo, governor of Edo, says his recent comment about the visit of Peter Obi, presidential candidate in Labour Party (LP) in 2023, to the state was not a threat.
During a public event in Edo on Friday, Okpebholo warned Obi not to come to the state again without security clearance.
The Edo governor claimed that Obi’s recent visit to the state coincided with the killing of three people.
However, in a statement on Sunday, Fred Itua, chief press secretary (CPS) to the governor, quoted Okpebholo as having said that his comment was meant to highlight the security protocols for politicians visiting the state.
Okpebholo said his comment should not be “twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points”.
“It is imperative to state clearly that the governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi,” the statement reads.
“But rather emphasized the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.
“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo state, it is the governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike.
“This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention.
“When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats.
“Governor Okpebholo’s position is particularly relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.
“Edo state has witnessed its share of these tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy in recent years.
“Public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger.
“The Governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in both security intelligence and moral responsibility.
“In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated. Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.
“The state government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives.
“We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.”
