THE Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has come to the defense of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, amidst controversy over Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s recent visit to Benin City.
Speaking today at the commissioning of the new Edo Line transport terminal in Benin, Wike criticized Obi for allegedly politicising a routine governance matter, urging him to refrain from “playing to the gallery.”
“Leadership is not easy. As a leader, you’re like a dustbin—people throw all sorts at you,” Wike said.
“When I was governor and Obi visited my state, he informed me. I made arrangements, including providing vehicles, because if anything happened, I would have been held responsible.”
He argued that Obi should have followed similar protocol by notifying Governor Okpebholo, especially given the volatile security environment in Edo State.
Wike clarified that Okpebholo never barred Obi from visiting the state but only insisted on prior security clearance for safety coordination.
“You never told Nigerians not to come to Edo. You only asked for notice,” Wike said to Okpebholo. “In this political season, anyone could be harmed, and they’ll blame the governor.”
The former Rivers State governor urged Okpebholo to remain resolute despite criticism, adding that public scrutiny is part of leadership.
“If no one talks about you, then you’re not doing your job. The real issue is: do you have your people’s support? If yes, then go ahead,” he added.
The backlash stems from Obi’s July 7 visit to the School of Nursing Sciences at St. Philomena’s Hospital in Benin, where he donated N15 million to support ongoing projects.
The visit, however, drew concern from the Edo State government, which said Obi failed to secure the required security clearance amid growing concerns over attacks on religious leaders and general insecurity.
The statement, issued by Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua, sparked strong reactions, including condemnation from Labour Party senators Victor Umeh, Ireti Kingibe, Ezea Okey, and Tony Nwoye, who labelled the governor’s stance as “executive rascality.”
Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) also weighed in, demanding a public apology and withdrawal of the statement.
As of the time of reporting, Peter Obi has not issued a personal response to the controversy.