Reuben Abati, a former presidential aide and prominent media figure, has called on Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to offer a public apology to Peter Obi following recent comments made about the Labour Party’s presidential candidate.
Governor Okpebholo had come under fire for suggesting that Obi should always notify the state government before visiting Edo. While the governor later clarified that his statement was only a piece of advice and not a threat, the remark sparked backlash across the country, with many accusing him of overstepping his bounds.
Although Okpebholo stood by his words, claiming that a similar situation in the past led to the tragic death of his police escort, Inspector Akor Onu, at the Benin Airport during Governor Obaseki’s tenure, critics say his comment was unnecessary.
Abati, weighing in on the matter, argued that the governor had no constitutional right to restrict or demand prior notice from a citizen visiting any part of Nigeria.
He criticised Okpebholo’s posture, saying, “Is the governor now in charge of who enters Edo State? If Peter Obi decides to marry from Edo, would he need clearance from Okpebholo?”
Abati concluded by urging the governor to show humility and apologise, stating that the remarks had brought needless embarrassment to the people of Edo State.
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