Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over his warning to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, regarding the need for security clearance before visiting the state.
Speaking on Tuesday during the launch of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Wike cautioned political actors against playing politics with security matters, emphasizing that safety must always take precedence.
Governor Okpebholo had sparked controversy after he warned Obi to seek proper clearance before entering Edo State, alleging that a previous visit by the former Anambra State Governor led to unrest and fatalities.
“If Peter Obi wants to come here, he should seek proper security clearance. We cannot guarantee his safety otherwise. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame,” Okpebholo reportedly said at a rally in Benin on Friday.
Backing this stance, Wike said: “All I am saying is, if you are coming, tell me because I am here to protect you. You didn’t say ‘don’t come.’ But people play politics. They give people money to go on television and twist facts.”
The former Rivers State governor stressed that in a politically charged environment, mischief makers can manipulate situations and pin the blame on innocent leaders.
“Some people can harm anybody and then accuse the governor of being responsible because he knows a coalition member is coming. So, governor, you are right,” Wike added.
He also criticised what he termed “political theatrics” aimed at swaying public perception. Wike questioned campaign tactics like serving food or making populist promises to fly economy class, branding them as insincere.
“This is not where a presidential candidate should be carrying food to serve. Nigerians call it humility. When he was governor, was he serving food? No!” he asked rhetorically.
“You think he’s telling you the truth? Nigerians, you like people who play you. You don’t like those who tell you the simple truth,” Wike continued.
Encouraging Governor Okpebholo to remain unwavering in his decisions, Wike noted that every leader faces criticism.
“If they don’t talk about you, then you are not a governor. Every day I wake up and nothing is said about me, I say something is wrong,” he said.
He concluded by asserting that public approval remains the most important measure of political success. “What is important is, do you have the support of your people? Yes. Once you have that, go ahead,” Wike affirmed.
