*Statement from the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Mobilization, and Engagement Regarding Recent Remarks by His Excellency, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo*
The Office of the Elegant Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Mobilization, and Engagement, Hon. Eugene Utubor, wishes to clarify the general public on the precent remarks made by His Excellency, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, concerning the visit of the former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential flag bearer, Mr. Peter Obi, to Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo's statements, which have been widely discussed across social media, are a direct reflection of his paramount duty as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State. His core responsibility is to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors, and his words must be understood within this non-negotiable context.
It is imperative to recall the unfortunate and tragic events of Mr. Obi's previous visit to Edo State, which resulted in a regrettable crisis and the loss of three precious lives in Benin City. This past incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for public gatherings to escalate into unforeseen security challenges, particularly when not adequately coordinated with the state's security apparatus.
Governor Okpebholo's assertion is a powerful declaration of his commitment to proactive security management.
This is not a threat, but a responsible and firm warning: when the state's Chief Security Officer is not duly informed of significant public engagements involving high-profile individuals, the ability to preemptively deploy adequate security measures and mitigate potential risks is severely compromised.
The consequence of such oversight is a security environment that cannot be assured, and any resultant incidents would naturally fall on the shoulders of those who chose to operate outside established security protocols.
We emphatically state that Governor Okpebholo is entirely within his rights as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State to demand prior notification for any visit by a prominent figure that could potentially draw large crowds and impact public order.
Critics should focus on constructive engagement rather than engaging in the misrepresentation of words. His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo is a man of grace, divinely chosen by God and the revered ancestors of our land to lead and protect the good people Edo state and visitors. He will not be distracted by mere rhetorical criticism or the noise of online agitators.
If Mr. Peter Obi's reasons and mission for visiting Edo State are genuinely peaceful and pose no risk of instigating crisis, then what truly prevents him from informing the Governor first?
As the Governor of the state, is there anything wrong if Peter Obi, as the disciplined, gentle, and "Mr. No Sin" he claims to be, simply gets the Governor informed out of courtesy, respect for protocol, and a shared commitment to public safety?
Governor Okpebholo's priority is, and will always remain, the peace, stability, and security of Edo State. We urge all stakeholders to support the Governor's unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone of us.
Signed
*Comrade Osatofoh Aitolo IMOLE*
*Media Coordinator*,
*Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Mobilization and Engagement*
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