By John Umeh
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to Labour Party leader and former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over what he described as a “deliberate act of political discourtesy” during Obi’s recent visit to the state. The governor expressed strong displeasure that the former Anambra State governor entered Edo without prior notification or courtesy visit to the state’s leadership.
Governor Okpebholo made the remarks while addressing journalists at the Government House in Benin City on Friday, saying that Obi’s actions were “disrespectful to the office of the governor” and “inconsistent with democratic norms and protocol.”
“Peter Obi cannot waltz into Edo State like he owns it,” Okpebholo said firmly. “This is not Anambra. Edo people are respectful and follow due process. If you’re coming here for political engagement, the least you can do is notify the sitting governor. It is basic courtesy.”
Obi reportedly visited parts of Edo State earlier in the week to meet with party supporters and civil society groups. However, sources within the state government confirmed that no official communication was sent to Governor Okpebholo’s office before the visit.
Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office earlier this year, emphasized that while he has nothing personal against Obi, the warning serves as a broader message that Edo State deserves respect from all political actors, regardless of status or affiliation.
“You don’t walk into my state and begin to move around as if leadership doesn’t matter. It is not about politics—it is about respect for institutions,” he added.
Peter Obi has yet to respond to the governor’s statement, but some Labour Party members have downplayed the issue, suggesting it was a non-political visit. Others within Edo’s political circles, however, view the governor’s comments as a clear signal that the 2024 Edo gubernatorial election season is heating up, and boundaries are being drawn early.
Political analysts say the tension could reflect rising anxieties among APC leaders over Obi’s growing influence in Edo, especially among the youth and middle class, who strongly supported him in the 2023 presidential election.
As the political landscape in Edo continues to evolve, the clash between Governor Okpebholo and Peter Obi could mark the beginning of a fierce battle for influence in the South-South region.
