Okpebholo denies ordering attack on Peter Obi

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has denied claims that he ordered any state agency to attack a 2027 presidential aspirant, Peter Obi during his recent visit to Edo

In a statement issued Tuesday night by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, Governor Okpebholo said neither he nor any organ of the Edo State Government issued directives targeting members of any political party.

“The Edo State Government has noted with concern the allegation by former Anambra State governor and Labour Party figure, Peter Obi, claiming that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials in Edo State,” the statement read.

“We wish to state unequivocally that the Okpebholo administration is not, and will never be, in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation. No directive was at any time issued by the Governor or any organ of the Edo State Government to target members of any political party. These allegations lack credible evidence and appear calculated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.”

The governor reiterated his earlier position that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public engagements to allow proper security coordination.

“The statement recalled the Governor’s earlier position regarding high-profile political visits to Edo State, where he made it clear that his comments were purely guided by security responsibility as the Chief Security Officer of the state, and not borne out of political hostility toward any individual or group. Governor Okpebholo had consistently maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public engagements to enable adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety. We view any attempt to twist the Governor’s security advisory into claims of intimidation or orchestrated attacks as misleading and politically motivated.”

The statement further addressed an incident on Monday, February 23, when a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie was denied entry to a meeting at the residence of former Edo governor John Odigie-Oyegun due to internal party disputes, which were later resolved after police intervention.

“It is now evident that the ADC and, by extension, Peter Obi are making efforts to cast aspersions on the work this administration is doing. The Edo State Government therefore urges political actors to verify facts before making public statements capable of overheating the polity. The administration remains committed to protecting all residents and visitors while upholding the constitutional rights of Nigerians to lawful movement and association. The government reiterates that its focus remains on governance, public safety and economic development, and not political persecution.”

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