“Obi Must Notify Me Before Coming To Edo, It's Not A Choice,” Declares Governor Okpebholo at Transit Launch

 

At a high-profile ceremony marking the launch of new modern transit buses in Benin City, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State delivered a bold message that echoed far beyond the event’s immediate scope. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd that included political dignitaries and supporters, the Governor made it clear that no one, regardless of their status, should enter the state without prior notice to his office.

With emotions running high and eyes fixed on the podium, the Governor’s words resonated like a thunderclap. He dismissed suggestions that his style of communication was limited or overly simplistic. “Even when they say I don't talk, just one word, one sentence, everybody was crying,” he said. The governor then added a statement that immediately seized the attention of both the audience and media alike: “It's an advice, don't come to Edo without telling me.”

He followed that remark with rhetorical questions that drew laughter and applause from his audience. “Was I chewing hot yam? Do I need one plus three to make a sentence? Do I need to read encyclopaedia for people to understand what I am saying?” These remarks not only emphasized his confidence in his approach but also aimed to dismantle any notion that his brevity implied weakness or a lack of clarity.

The Governor’s firm tone was not just for effect. His message had a deeper layer grounded in his constitutional role. “My job is not only to work for Edo people, my job is to save life of every Edo citizen and visitors coming into Edo,” he stressed. According to him, notifying the state leadership before entering Edo is not just protocol, but a matter of security.

He stated bluntly that if his insistence on being informed ahead of such visits is considered controversial or even criminal, he is prepared to accept the backlash. “If telling him to notify me as the Chief Security Officer of this state is a crime, so be it. I have no regret about it.”

Supporters at the event cheered as he doubled down on his stance. “I repeat it, before you come into this State, notify me. It's not a choice.” His position reinforces the legal and administrative importance of respecting the office of the Governor, particularly in matters relating to security and coordination.

The occasion itself, which was meant to highlight Edo’s commitment to modern infrastructure and improved public transportation, quickly turned into a showcase of political authority and confidence. The newly unveiled transit buses are part of a broader initiative to overhaul urban mobility in Benin City and surrounding areas, aimed at improving ease of movement and reducing traffic congestion.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who attended the event as Special Guest, looked on with visible approval during the Governor’s address. Although he didn’t speak at length, his presence lent additional weight to the moment, particularly given Wike’s own reputation for taking bold positions on matters of governance and state sovereignty.

Political analysts observing the development suggest that Governor Okpebholo’s statement was not merely about protocol but a veiled response to a broader political situation, possibly involving high-profile figures entering the state without prior engagement. Some insiders believe the Governor’s tough tone could signal the beginning of stricter enforcement around state-level cooperation and security coordination.

Social media platforms lit up shortly after the event, with hashtags related to the Governor’s remarks trending nationwide. While some commentators praised him for asserting leadership and defending the integrity of his office, others raised concerns about the tone of the warning, calling for more diplomacy in public communication.

Still, Okpebholo’s supporters insist that a strong stance is necessary in an era where the lines of political courtesy and security protocol are often blurred. “It’s not about ego, it’s about accountability and control,” said a party loyalist present at the launch.

As Edo State continues to pursue modernization and enhanced security, Governor Okpebholo's latest declaration sends a clear signal: leadership, in his view, is not a ceremonial post but a serious responsibility that demands structure, respect, and coordination from all quarters.