Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has maintains that Labour Party presidential candidate and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, must notify him before any visit to the state.
Speaking in Benin City on Tuesday during the commissioning of the New Edo Line transport company, Okpebholo clarified that the requirement is not a threat but a necessary security measure to safeguard lives within the state, including those of visitors.
He emphasized that as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is his duty to maintain safety and order, irrespective of political affiliations or status.
The governor said in part …
“I don’t need to read an encyclopedia for people to understand what I was saying.
My job is to save lives—both of Edo people and visitors. If telling him, as the Chief Security Officer of this state, to notify me is a crime, so be it. I have no regrets. I repeat, before coming to Edo—notify me. It is not a threat. We have made our statement clear.”
The governor cited a personal experience to reinforce his position, recalling a previous incident during Peter Obi’s visit to Edo State where security protocols were reportedly disregarded.
“I went through this same process. When I came to the airport, the Commissioner of Police advised me to remain at the airport. I ignored it. My police escort was shot dead right in front of me,” he added.
