Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has ignited controversy after issuing a stern caution to former presidential candidate Peter Obi, warning him against entering Edo State without seeking prior approval from his office.
Speaking at a political gathering—widely shared in new clip on social media—Governor Okpebholo stated that he would not guarantee Obi’s security unless he officially notified his administration before visiting. The governor emphasised the gravity of his warning, telling Obi:
“There’s a new sheriff in town. He cannot just come into Edo without informing me. His security will not be guaranteed. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking.”
The warning stems from Peter Obi’s previous visit to Edo, during which he reportedly donated ₦15 million. Governor Okpebholo questioned the source of the funds, saying:
“A man who claims to have no money, where did he get that from?”
The governor also tied Obi’s earlier visit to unrest in Benin City that allegedly claimed three lives, further intensifying the dispute.
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The governor’s directive has sparked heavy backlash across social media, particularly among public figures and influencers who view the order as undemocratic and intimidating.
Isreal DMW, an entertainment executive and Davido aide, sharply responded in a post saying:
“INEC AND SUPREME COURT GOVERNOR.”
The remark critiques the legitimacy of Okpebholo’s political mandate—jokingly implying the governor may lack full electoral or judicial endorsement.
Nollywood star Destiny Etiko weighed in succinctly, asking:
“As who?” Her brief yet pointed question directly challenged the governor’s authority, capturing widespread sentiment among outraged observers.
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Meanwhile, prominent blogger Tunde Ednut delivered a lengthy critique, blasting Okpebholo as a political “puppet.”
He questioned the governor’s allegiance to former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole and likened the statement to a threat. Ednut wrote in parts:
“Who talks like this? Is this not a threat?… All these behaviors have to stop before it totally crashes our country… They are afraid he’s gonna steal votes.”
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