Benin City, Edo State — Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has responded to the growing backlash over his recent security advisory to former Anambra Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, saying his comment was based on first-hand experience and genuine concern, not political intimidation.

Earlier this week, Okpebholo stirred controversy after advising Obi to seek security clearance before visiting Edo State, a move many viewed as politically charged. The statement drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, civil society groups, and citizens, who described it as an attempt to restrict the movement of opposition figures.

However, while speaking at the official launch of modern transit buses in Benin City on Tuesday, Governor Okpebholo clarified his position, citing a personal security incident where a police officer in his security detail was shot dead after he failed to heed similar security advice.

“It Was Just an Advice” — Okpebholo Explains

“I simply said it is an advice — ‘Don’t come to Edo without telling me.’ Was that truly hot yam?” the governor said, defending the comment that drew online uproar.

According to him, the warning was grounded in a real-life event during the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. Okpebholo said he arrived at Benin Airport, and the then Commissioner of Police advised him to stay put due to a security report. He ignored the advice.

“Just at the airport gate, my police officer, Inspector Akor, was shot dead in my presence,” the governor recounted.
“I have security reports. I have advised the former governor of Anambra State. If he likes, let him take it; if he likes, let him not. If he wants to dwell on social media, that doesn't concern me.”

Political Reactions: Atiku Warns Against Targeting Opposition

Following the development, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar weighed in on Tuesday, warning that any threat or perceived targeting of Peter Obi or any member of the opposition coalition is a threat to all of them.

“A threat to one is a threat to all,” Atiku reportedly said, as quoted by SaharaReporters.

The warning comes amid renewed efforts by opposition parties to form a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, raising tensions in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Governor Fires Back at Critics

Okpebholo further addressed those criticizing his initial remarks, particularly Obi supporters, saying:

“I don’t know which one is paining them. Is it because I said they don’t have shishi? Didn’t they say they don’t have shishi? So why are they crying?”

His use of the term “shishi” — a slang for money — referred to the Labour Party’s public claims during the 2023 elections that they were not operating with big campaign funds.

A Delicate Moment in Nigerian Politics

The situation underscores the fragile state of Nigeria’s political atmosphere, especially as the country prepares for another election cycle. While Okpebholo insists that his comment was not a restriction on Obi’s right to movement, the opposition is watching closely for signs of suppression, harassment, or targeted threats.

So far, Peter Obi has not officially responded to the governor’s statements.