The governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has insisted that the 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, must not step foot into the state without obtaining clearance from the state government.

According to the governor during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Company in Benin on Tuesday, the comment was only an advice and not a threat and it still stands despite all the backlash.

NEWSMAXNG reported that Okpebholo on July 18 stated that Obi must get security clearance before coming to the state to avoid stories that touch he heart.

This was following Obi’s visit to St Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences on June 7, where he donated N15 million for the completion of projects in the school.

However, the visit was said to have coincided with the resurgence of violence and the stampeding of three persons.

In reaction, the Governor said; “That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed.

“For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance.

“His visit coincided with a resurgence of violence in the state and this will not be tolerated.”

However, on Tuesday, the governor affirmed a statement by his CPS, Fred Itua, on Sunday where he said that Okpebholo’s statement was given misunderstood for a threat when it was simply an advice.

The governor in his statement reaffirmed his duty to protect the lives of the people of Edo state and visitors to the state.

When he was interviewed by newsmen, Okpebholo stated how a single statement of his made everyone cry.

He said; “What I said was simply advice, don’t come to Edo without telling me.

“When I was saying it, was I chewing hot yam? Do I need one plus three to make my sentence? Do I need to read an encyclopedia before people can understand what I am saying?

“My job is not only to work for Edo people, but my job is to save the lives of Edo citizens and visitors coming into Edo.

” If telling him (Peter Obi) to notify me of his coming as the chief security officer of the state is a crime, so be it.

“I have no regrets about what I have said, and I repeat it: before you come into Edo State, notify me. It is not a threat.

“I went through this same process. I was advised when I came to the airport before the election by the then Commissioner of Police to remain at the airport.

“I ignored the advice and went out. My police escort was shot dead before my eyes.

“I have advised the former Governor of Anambra State, if he likes, let him take it; if he likes, let him dwell on social media; it does not concern me.

“I had a security report and advised the former governor of Anambra state to inform me whenever he is coming to Edo State

“If he likes, let him take my advice.”