Former Labour Party (LP) Governorship candidate in Edo State, Olumide Akpata, has come out strongly against Governor Monday Okpebholo following the circulation of a viral video in which the governor allegedly threatened Peter Obi, warning him not to enter Edo State without his permission.
In a statement on X on Saturday, Akpata expressed deep concern over the governor’s conduct, describing the outburst as “deeply troubling” and uncharacteristic of Edo people, who are known for their hospitality and warmth.
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“When I first saw the video clip of Governor Monday Okpebholo threatening Mr. Peter Obi not to enter Edo State without his ‘permission’, I genuinely thought it was fake — perhaps one of those AI-generated videos or a poorly written skit,” Akpata said.
“But it’s now clear it wasn’t fake. The Governor hasn’t denied it, no spokesperson has disowned it, and it’s been reported on credible news platforms. So, we must assume it was real — and that’s deeply troubling.
”The video, which has sparked outrage on social media, allegedly shows Governor Okpebholo fuming over Obi’s visit to Edo where he donated ₦15 million to an educational institution as part of his birthday celebrations. Akpata described Obi’s gesture as a “modest, generous contribution,” noting that the former Anambra governor’s act of service was in line with his well-known leadership style.
“Edo people are known for being warm, open, and hospitable. We welcome visitors. We don’t chase them away — much less someone like Mr. Obi who came to make a modest, generous contribution by donating ₦15 million to an educational institution in our state,” he added.
He also dismissed the governor’s implied authority over visitors to the state, saying: “Let’s be clear: Mr. Peter Obi does not need anyone’s permission to visit Edo State or any other State for that matter. Not now, not ever.”
Akpata seized the opportunity to criticize Okpebholo’s governance style, urging him to focus on earning the genuine love and respect of the people instead of lashing out at perceived political threats.
“Perhaps Governor Okpebholo should focus more on governing in a way that earns him the kind of love and connection that Peter Obi enjoys amongst the people — the way Mr. Obi has consistently done through his exemplary leadership,” Akpata said.
In a sharp rebuke of the governor’s timing, Akpata pointed out that the remark came on the eve of Obi’s birthday — a day being marked by ‘Obidients’ nationwide through charitable acts — underscoring what he called “the Governor’s poor sense of judgement and timing.”
He concluded with a heartfelt message to the former presidential candidate: “On that note, Happy 64th Birthday to @PeterObi — a man whose leadership inspires millions, and whose presence in Edo will always be welcome, regardless of the threats from those who see your impact as a challenge to their own inadequacies.”
As of press time, the Edo State Government has not issued any official response to Akpata’s statement or the video clip in question.
 Governorship candidate in Edo State, Olumide Akpata, has come out strongly against Governor Monday Okpebholo following the circulation of a viral video in which the governor allegedly threatened Peter Obi, warning him not to enter Edo State without his permission.){kind=link}