Peter Obi security clearance issue gains Wike’s backing as Edo governor insists on safety protocols amid political tensions.
By NIGPOST Editorial Team | July 22, 2025
The issue of Peter Obi security clearance has returned to the national spotlight,
stirring strong political reactions and forcing a deeper discussion about the responsibilities of leaders in safeguarding public order.
At the center of the current storm is a firm stance taken by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo,
and a powerful endorsement of that stance by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike.
During the commissioning of the newly introduced Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Wike emphatically backed Okpebholo’s position.
The governor had insisted that Peter Obi Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate must seek official security clearance before visiting the state.
Wike argued that such measures are not just procedural but are essential for protecting lives and maintaining public safety.
“You didn’t say, ‘don’t come,’ you only said, ‘tell us beforehand so we can secure you,’” Wike told a crowd of state officials, media, and political stakeholders. “That’s not politics; that’s governance.”
The Controversy Behind the Visit
However, the controversy began when Peter Obi’s last visit to Edo State ended in chaos.
According to Governor Okpebholo, that visit, which included a philanthropic donation of ₦15 million to a local nursing school, indirectly sparked unrest in parts of Benin City.
The alleged result? The tragic deaths of at least four people.
While some critics called the governor’s remarks politically motivated, Okpebholo defended his concern.
He made it clear during a public address that security should never be politicized, especially in a country where tensions run high before, during, and after elections.
“We welcome everyone, including Peter Obi. However, if he must come, let him follow the right channels.
If anything happens, we can’t have fingers pointed in the wrong direction,” the governor stated.
This triggered widespread debate on national media and social platforms.
Supporters of Obi argued that the statement was an attempt to suppress political opposition in Edo.
Yet, others including powerful voices like Wike insisted it was a necessary caution in a volatile political landscape.
Wike: “We Must Protect Each Other”
Nyesom Wike’s backing of Governor Okpebholo added fire to the conversation.
Known for his blunt and fearless commentary, Wike didn’t mince words.
“Let’s not pretend we don’t know how things work in Nigeria. A political figure enters a state unannounced, tension rises, and suddenly there’s violence.
Then the host governor is blamed. That’s not fair,” Wike declared.
He further explained that requiring Peter Obi security clearance was not an act of suppression but of responsibility.
According to Wike, Nigeria has reached a point where even a whisper can lead to public unrest if not managed properly.
He continued, “This isn’t about party lines. It’s about what is right for the people.”
Populism vs. Practical Governance
Wike also took a jab at what he described as Obi’s “theatrics.”
He questioned the former Anambra governor’s public actions like serving food to the low income earners or flying economy class as manipulative rather than sincere.
“Was he dishing food when he was governor? So why now?” Wike asked, to the laughter of the audience. “You think he’s being humble? No, he’s playing the game.”
The minister warned Nigerians not to confuse theatrics with leadership.
Real leaders, he said, work behind the scenes to ensure safety, progress, and equity not just social media trends.
Wike’s sharp criticism of Obi’s campaign strategy was a clear attempt to steer the conversation from image to integrity.
Political Safety in a Polarized Climate
The issue of Peter Obi security clearance is more than a local state concern it reflects a broader national dilemma.
In today’s Nigeria, politics is as emotionally charged as it is strategic. Unfortunately, this creates space for violence, misinformation, and manipulation.
Governor Okpebholo’s cautionary stance reflects the kind of vigilance increasingly demanded of public officeholders.
In his words, “If Peter Obi must come, let us prepare properly. We’re not denying anyone access, but we must be proactive.”
This statement echoes past incidents where political visits escalated into chaos.
Across Nigeria, many leaders now stress the importance of collaboration between political visitors and local authorities to avoid friction and safeguard communities.
Criticism Will Always Come – Wike Advises
Wike didn’t stop at defending Okpebholo. He also encouraged him to stay the course, regardless of criticism.
According to the FCT Minister, public criticism is part of the job description for any leader who makes bold decisions.
“If you wake up and nobody talks about you, then maybe you’re not doing your job,” he said. “Let them talk. What matters is the support of your people.”
Wike’s comments resonated with many grassroots supporters in attendance, reinforcing the message that local legitimacy outweighs online applause.
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The Bottom Line: Leaders Must Lead
The growing debate around Peter Obi’s security clearance is not just about a political visit it’s a test of how Nigeria’s democracy handles high-stakes optics, accountability, and safety.
For Wike and Okpebholo, the solution is clear: leaders must prioritize security over sentiment.
It doesn’t matter if the visitor is from a different party or ideology. What matters is the preservation of peace and public order.
Wike concluded his speech by reminding leaders nationwide to be vigilant.
“This is not about Peter Obi. It’s about anyone who holds influence. Once you move, people move.
If something happens, who answers the questions? The host. So let’s stop playing politics with people’s lives.”
Do you agree with Governor Okpebholo and Minister Wike on enforcing security clearance for visiting politicians like Peter Obi?
Should all political figures notify state authorities before public visits?
Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us @NIGPOST on social media.
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