Akpata berates Edo governor over attack on Peter Obi, urges Okpebholo to focus on governance
Former Edo State Labour Party governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, has condemned Governor Monday Okpebholo over his reported verbal attack on former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, describing the remarks as “deeply troubling” and unbefitting of a sitting governor.
Akpata, in a statement on Friday, reacted to a video circulating online in which Governor Okpebholo allegedly warned Obi not to enter Edo State without his permission. He said he initially assumed the video was fake or AI-generated, but noted that no denial had been issued by the governor or his spokespersons, making it necessary to treat the footage as genuine.
“Edo people are known for being warm, open, and hospitable. We welcome visitors. We don’t chase them away — much less someone like Mr. Obi who came to make a modest, generous contribution by donating ₦15 million to an educational institution in our state,” Akpata said.
He emphasized that Peter Obi, like every Nigerian, has the right to visit any part of the country without seeking permission from any political officeholder. “Let’s be clear: Mr. Peter Obi does not need anyone’s permission to visit Edo State or any other state for that matter. Not now, not ever,” he declared.
Akpata also advised Governor Okpebholo to focus on governance and building genuine connection with the people, instead of issuing threats. He praised Obi’s consistent example of leadership, saying the former presidential candidate has earned widespread admiration through his selfless service.
He further criticized the timing of the governor’s statement, noting that it coincided with Obi’s 64th birthday, a day on which his supporters across Nigeria were engaged in acts of service in his honour.
“Happy 64th Birthday to Mr. Peter Obi — a man whose leadership inspires millions, and whose presence in Edo will always be welcome, regardless of the threats from those who see your impact as a challenge to their own inadequacies,” Akpata added.
