The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has thrown his weight behind Edo State Governor, Monday Okpehbolo, over his comments directed at the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Speaking at the inauguration of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, the Edo State capital, on Tuesday, Wike advised Nigerian politicians to avoid politicising security and governance issues.
Recall that Okpebholo, while addressing supporters at a rally in Benin City on Friday, warned Obi to obtain security clearance before visiting the state.
Okpebholo further claimed that the last time Obi visited the state and made a donation of N15 million to a nursing school in the state, there was unrest in the state, leading to the death of at least four people.
“If Peter Obi wants to come here, he should seek proper security clearance. We cannot guarantee his safety otherwise, if anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking,” he had said.
Wike said Okpehbolo was right to insist on prior notice from visiting political figures for security reasons, adding that the governor’s stance was in the best interest of public safety.
The ex-Governor of Rivers State said, “All I am saying is, if you are coming, tell me because I am here to protect you.
“You didn’t say, ‘Don’t come.’ But people play politics. They give people money to go on television and twist facts.”
Wike warned that in a politically charged atmosphere, mischief makers could exploit situations to cause harm and blame innocent leaders.
“Some people can harm anybody and then accuse the governor of being responsible because he knows a coalition member is coming. So governor, you are right,” he said.
Wike also took aim at what he described as “political theatrics” by the former Anambra governor, criticising the trend of publicity stunts to sway public opinion.
“This is not where a presidential candidate will be carrying food to serve. And Nigerians will say, ‘Oh, humble.’ Who told you that is humility? When he was governor, was he serving food? No!” he queried.
Wike further dismissed populist campaign promises by Obi, such as pledges to fly on commercial planes if elected president, describing them as deceitful.
“You think he’s telling you the truth? Nigerians, you like people who play you. You don’t like those who tell you the simple truth,” he added.
Encouraging Okpehbolo to remain resolute, Wike said criticism is inevitable for leaders who take bold decisions.
“If they don’t talk about you, then you are not a governor. Every day I wake up, and nothing is said about me, I say something is wrong. So, don’t put yourself down. Stand firm in any decision you have taken,” he advised.
The minister stated that the ultimate measure of leadership is grassroots backing.
“What is important is, do you have the support of your people? Yes. Once you have that, go ahead,” Wike said.
