Wike Backs Edo Governor Over Peter Obi Visit Protocol
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has defended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, over his directive that Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, must inform the state government before any visit to Edo.
Speaking on Monday during the commissioning of the revitalised Edo Line mass transit system in Benin City, Wike said Okpebholo’s insistence on protocol and security was both appropriate and necessary given the current political climate.
“When I was governor and Obi was campaigning, he would notify me before coming to Rivers State,” Wike stated. “That’s the proper way to do things. If anything happens to him while he’s in the state unannounced, the governor will be held responsible.”
Wike stressed that no responsible governor would overlook the security implications of unscheduled visits by high-profile politicians, especially in sensitive times.
“Some people just like to play politics with everything. What Governor Okpebholo said was correct. He never said Obi shouldn’t come. He only said, ‘Let me know when you’re coming so I can protect you.’ And that is the truth,” Wike said.
Taking a swipe at what he described as “populist politics of pretence,” Wike said the real danger is when political actors manipulate public opinion with theatrics rather than address governance with responsibility.
“This is not a time for carrying food trays or pretending to fly commercial aircraft just to deceive people. Nigerians must start to recognise what real leadership looks like,” he said.
Wike further urged the Edo governor to remain firm in his decisions and ignore those trying to undermine his authority.
“In leadership, people will attack you for doing the right thing. Don’t let that bother you. If no one is talking about you, then you’re not leading. But once you have your people behind you, stand your ground,” Wike charged.
He also warned that in the heat of political seasons, even the most innocent acts could be twisted for propaganda.
“These so-called coalition members, if anything happens, they’ll accuse the governor of plotting it. So, your directive to be informed is both wise and lawful. Anyone who doesn’t understand that is playing politics,” he said.
The FCT Minister described Governor Okpebholo as a quiet achiever whose work in the last eight months had begun to restore Edo’s credibility. According to him, performance, not political noise, was the true test of leadership.
“I identify with people who mean well for their people. The governor is focused. He’s not talking too much, but he’s working. He’s not the type to be distracted by noise,” Wike said.
The event also served as a subtle political reckoning, with Wike publicly expressing regret for backing the previous administration in Edo State.
“In 2020, I led the campaign that gave Edo bad governance. I apologise. But I won’t make that mistake again. What I see now is a governor who’s serious about delivering for his people,” he said.
As the Edo Line buses were commissioned amid fanfare, Wike reiterated his support for the Okpebholo administration, urging the people of Edo to rally behind their governor and ignore detractors.
“You’re doing the right thing. Keep going. Don’t let anyone distract you. Protect your people, protect your mandate, and protect your legacy,” he concluded.
