Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to extend the courtesy of notifying Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, ahead of any visits to the state.
Speaking during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme on Friday, the former Edo State governor weighed in on the controversy surrounding Governor Okpebholo’s recent caution to Obi, who was accused of entering the state without prior notice—an action the governor linked to a security incident that reportedly claimed three lives.
Oshiomhole defended the governor’s stance, stating that visiting state-owned facilities without informing the appropriate authorities is a breach of basic protocol and mutual respect.
“Let’s be clear, the assets of Edo State are managed by the governor on behalf of the people,” Oshiomhole said. “If I were to visit a public institution in another state, I would consider it proper to notify the authorities. This is just standard decency.”
He revealed that Obi had planned to visit a state-funded educational institution, a move he said required coordination with the state government.
While noting his personal regard for Obi, Oshiomhole stressed that their political paths have long diverged.
“Peter Obi and I have known each other for years. I respected him then, and I still do. But we don’t align politically, and I don’t agree with many of his positions,” he stated.
Oshiomhole insisted the issue was not rooted in politics or partisanship but in respecting governance structures, particularly when visiting another state in an official or high-profile capacity.
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