Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has thrown his weight behind Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo following the latter’s stern warning to Peter Obi over his recent visit to the state.
Speaking at the inauguration of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City on Tuesday, Wike supported Governor Okpebholo’s call for political figures to obtain prior security clearance before visiting any state.
READ ALSO: Okpebholo clarifies statement on Peter Obi’s visits to Edo
He stressed that such a protocol is essential to prevent potential security breaches.Governor Okpebholo had, during a political gathering on Friday, cautioned Peter Obi—Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer—to formally seek permission before entering Edo.
He further alleged that unrest followed Obi’s recent visit, which included a donation of ₦15 million to a local nursing school and reportedly culminated in the deaths of four individuals.
Breakingng.com reported that Okpebholo had issued a warne that “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. I’m not joking.”
Backing the governor’s position, 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.”
Wike, the immediate past Governor of Rivers State pointed out the dangers of politicising governance and security matters, noting that misinformation could lead to harmful consequences.
“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,” he said.
He also condemned political showmanship aimed at manipulating public perception, taking a veiled swipe at candidates who employ populist tactics.
“This is not where a presidential candidate will be carrying food to serve. And Nigerians will say, ‘Oh, humble.’ Who told you that is humility? When he was governor, was he serving food? No!” he queried.
The former governor further criticized deceptive campaign tactics like promises to avoid luxury by flying commercial flights, suggesting they were designed to mislead voters.
“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,” he added.
Encouraging Governor Okpebholo to stand firm in his decisions despite criticism, Wike said: “If no one is talking about you, then you’re not truly a governor. Every day I wake up and hear nothing about myself, I start to worry. So don’t be discouraged—stand firm in the decisions you’ve made.”
He concluded by stating that the true strength of leadership is measured by the backing of one’s constituents: “What matters most is; do your people stand with you? If the answer is yes, then keep going,” he stated.
, Nyesom Wike, has thrown his weight behind Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo following the latter’s stern warning to Peter Obi over his recent visit to the state.){kind=link}