‘With any coalition it can happen,’ Wike defended Okpebholo’s request for permission from Obi to visit Edo

Federal Capital Region Minister (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday criticized the presidential candidate of the Labor Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, for allegedly playing politics with the government in Edo.

The Minister reacts to the controversy that follows the Governor of Monday Okpebholo to Obi about a visit to the southern-south state.

Okpebholo last Friday told the former Governor of the State Anambra not to visit the state without security permit.

“There is a new sheriff in the city. He can’t just come to Edo without telling me. His safety will not be guaranteed. If something happens to him here, he will blame himself. I am not kidding,” Okpebholo said in broadcast.

The comment has attracted the reaction of Obi’s supporters, by questioning the Governor’s right to stop the Nigerians from visiting the state of Edo.

Wike spoke during the Commissioning of the New Edo line transportation terminal in Benin City.

Also read: ‘Edo is Nobo Family Estate,’ Aisha Yesufu reprimanded Okpebholo for comments about Obi

Former Governor Rivers urged the LP Chief to stop playing to the gallery or politicizing the problem of governance.

He stressed that Okpebholo did not stop Obi from entering Edo but only asked for prior notice for security reasons.

He said: “Leadership is not easy. As a leader, you are a garbage man -people throwing all kinds of things to you. I have watched on this new television.

“I provide logistics, vehicles to be used. Because at that level, as a presidential candidate, if he does not tell you and whatever happens, the governor will be considered responsible.

“And people must stop politics when the truth is told. Obi, know fully that with the coalition they call, whatever can happen, will accuse the governor that he is behind him.”