FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has thrown his weight behind Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State over the controversy trailing the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi’s recent visit to Benin City.
Speaking at the commissioning of the new Edo Line transport terminal on Tuesday, Wike accused Obi of politicising a matter that should have been handled with discretion.
He urged the former Anambra governor to stop “playing to the gallery.”
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According to Wike, Obi failed to notify the state government of his visit on 7 July to the School of Nursing Sciences at St. Philomena’s Hospital, where he donated ₦15 million.
The Minister said such high-profile visits require prior notification for security coordination, especially given the current climate of insecurity.
“When I was governor, Peter Obi informed me before visiting my state. I even provided logistics,” Wike said.
“It’s a matter of protocol and security. If anything had happened, the governor would be blamed. Okpebholo never said Obi shouldn’t come—he only insisted on being notified. That’s leadership.”
Wike dismissed public backlash over Okpebholo’s statement, describing it as a deliberate attempt to stir political tension.
He also advised the Edo governor to remain resolute.
“Stand firm in any decision you’ve taken,” Wike added.
“The important thing is: do you have the support of your people? If yes, go ahead. If people are not talking about you, you’re not yet a governor.”
Okpebholo’s demand for security clearance sparked outrage from several quarters.
LP senators Victor Umeh, Ireti Kingibe, Ezea Okey, and Tony Nwoye condemned the governor’s stance as “executive rascality.”
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Prominent rights lawyer Femi Falana also urged Okpebholo to withdraw the statement and issue a public apology.
As of press time, Obi has yet to respond to the controversy.
