Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has backed Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over his call for Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, to seek security clearance before visiting the state.
Speaking during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service on Tuesday in Benin City, Wike said such protocols were not political but necessary for the safety of high-profile individuals.
Drawing from his time as Governor of Rivers State, Wike disclosed that he often provided security support and logistics for Obi’s visits, but only after receiving official notice.
“When Peter Obi visited Rivers State, I was duly informed and gave the necessary logistics and support. If you don’t notify the state, how will the governor be responsible for anything that happens to you?” Wike said.
He noted that Governor Okpebholo’s directive was a matter of governance and accountability, not an attempt to prevent Obi from entering the state.
Wike also criticised Obi’s recent public appearances, describing some of them as “populist stunts,” particularly referencing a recent charity event in Imo State where Obi was seen serving food.
“You’re serving food for the cameras and making promises like flying economy class as president—things you never did as governor. Nigerians are easily deceived by these theatrics,” he said.
The FCT Minister said Obi’s recent actions appeared to contrast sharply with his style as Governor of Anambra State, suggesting that many of his current gestures only began during his presidential campaigns.
He accused critics of deliberately misinterpreting Okpebholo’s comment regarding Obi’s July 7 visit to Benin City, during which the former governor donated ₦15 million to a nursing school. The visit was later linked to reported unrest in the area.
“The governor did not say Obi should not come. He simply asked that proper security arrangements be made, which is the right thing,” Wike explained.
The comments by Wike come amid ongoing debates about the role of protocol, security, and politics in high-profile visits to states, especially in the build-up to the 2027 elections.
