By Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has clarified that the advice given by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, was purely for safety reasons. This clarification comes amidst speculations that Okpebholo’s statement was a threat.
Speaking at the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Barrister Wike emphasized that Okpebholo’s advice for Peter Obi to notify him before visiting Edo State was a precautionary measure to ensure Obi’s safety. Wike stressed that as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, Okpebholo has a responsibility to protect all visitors, including high-profile individuals like Peter Obi.
“The Governor’s statement was not a threat, but a concern for safety.” – Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister
“When I was Governor, Peter Obi notified me before visiting my State, and I provided logistics for him to use. This is a normal protocol to ensure the safety of our visitors.” – Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister
“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?” – Governor Monday Okpebholo
Wike also took the opportunity to apologize for supporting the reelection of former Governor Godwin Obaseki in 2020, acknowledging that it was a mistake. He praised Okpebholo’s commitment to good governance and his efforts to revitalize the Edo Line, which will significantly improve transportation and security in the State.
The commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including:
- Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister
- Governor Monday Okpebholo, Edo State Governor
- Former Governor Adams Oshiomhole
- Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku
- Secretary to Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor
