The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has backed the position of Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State regarding the visit of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Speaking in Benin City during the unveiling of modern mass transit buses by the Edo State government, Wike stated that it was appropriate for Obi to notify the sitting governor before visiting the state.
Wike recalled his time as Governor of Rivers State, noting that Peter Obi gave him prior notice before visiting, during which he personally provided vehicles and logistics for Obi’s campaign activities. According to Wike, such protocol is necessary because if anything were to happen to a high-profile visitor like a presidential candidate, the state governor would be held responsible.
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“There’s nothing wrong with Governor Okpebholo’s position,” Wike said. “When Peter Obi came to Rivers State, I was properly informed, and I made sure he was supported logistically. At that level, anything that goes wrong becomes the host governor’s problem.”
He also dismissed claims that Governor Okpebholo had issued any threat against Peter Obi or was trying to restrict his movement in Edo State. Instead, Wike emphasized that the call for notification was rooted in standard security and protocol practice.
Wike’s remarks lend political weight to Okpebholo’s position and seek to clarify the controversy surrounding Obi’s recent visit to Edo State. The minister urged all political actors to adhere to proper procedures for safety and coordination.
