The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has thrown his support behind Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s demand that Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi should seek security clearance before visiting Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo previously raised concerns linking Obi’s last visit to a security lapse that allegedly led to the deaths of three individuals.
In response, Wike backed the governor’s position during the commissioning of the Edo Line transport project in Benin City on Tuesday.
Reflecting on his own experience, Wike noted: “When Peter Obi was coming to my state, he notified me, and I provided vehicles and logistics for him.”
Wike emphasized that Obi, as a former presidential candidate and a prominent political figure, warrants careful handling in terms of security when moving across states.
He stressed that any incident involving Obi would reflect directly on the host governor.
“If anything happens to Obi, they would accuse the governor that he was behind it,” he stated.
“So, the statement you (Okpebholo) made, you were quite right. You didn’t say, don’t come, all you’re saying is if you’re coming, tell me, because I’m here to protect you.”
Wike clarified that Okpebholo’s message was not a restriction but a request for cooperation to prevent potential security failures.
According to him, it was standard protocol for a governor to be informed ahead of a visit from any high-profile individual.
He also criticized what he described as political grandstanding, implying that such visits often come with unnecessary theatrics.
“People play to the gallery. This is not where a presidential candidate will be serving food. And you know this is a pretense. How long will you keep serving the food?” Wike remarked, expressing disapproval at what he saw as insincere political gestures.
This development has stirred debate, with some critics including former Labour Party spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, condemning the move as unconstitutional.
Still, Wike insists the governor’s demand is based on common-sense governance and not politics.
