Former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has come to the defense of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebolo, amid growing criticism over a controversial statement directed at Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Governor Okpebolo had stirred public outrage following a remark made during a political gathering in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area. He reportedly said:
“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 comment triggered widespread condemnation, with many calling it a veiled threat to Obi’s safety. However, in a video clip that surfaced online today, Okpebolo stood by his position and clarified his intent.
“If telling him to notify me as the Chief Security Officer of this state is a crime, so be it. I have no regret about it. Before you come to Edo State, notify me. It’s not a threat,” the governor said.
Wike, who was present at the event where Okpebolo made the clarification, praised the governor for his boldness and advised him not to be swayed by public criticism.
“Don’t bother yourself, stand firm in any decision you have taken. If they don’t talk about you, then you are not a governor. Any day I wake up and nothing is said about me, I say something is wrong somewhere,” Wike told Okpebolo.
Wike also accused Peter Obi of living a fake lifestyle and attempting to deceive Nigerians ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wike’s remarks have added fuel to an already heated political atmosphere, drawing strong reactions from Obi’s supporters and political observers nationwide.
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