Inform Me or Stay Away – Okpebholo Stands Ground, Mocks Obi Over Edo Visit

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has doubled down on his stance that former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, must notify him before visiting the state.

According to iReporter Online, Governor Okpebholo made the remarks on Tuesday during the commissioning of the state’s newly launched mass transit system in Benin City. His statement followed earlier comments made on July 18 during the defection ceremony of Hon. Marcus Onobun, where he advised Obi to always inform the state government prior to any visit.

Clarifying his position, Okpebholo stated that his remark was not a threat but a safety advisory based on past experience. Recounting a tragic incident, the governor explained that during a visit to Benin Airport in 2024—against the advice of a former Commissioner of Police—his police orderly, Inspector Akor Onu, was shot dead at the gate.

“I said it as advice, not a threat,” Okpebholo reiterated, according to iReporter Online. “If telling him to notify me as the chief security officer of the state is a crime, then so be it. I have no regrets.”

He further mocked the backlash his statement attracted, saying, “Why are they crying? Is it because I said they don’t have ‘shishi’? Do they not say that themselves?”

Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his insistence stems from security intelligence at his disposal. “I have the security reports. Whether he takes the advice or not, it’s up to him,” he said, stressing that he is unbothered by social media reactions.

According to iReporter Online, the governor also highlighted his administration’s focus on development and thanked Edo residents for their support, while reiterating that his directive to Peter Obi is rooted in security concerns, not politics.