Respect for Protocol or Political Targeting? Adams Oshiomhole Weighs in on Obi’s Controversial Edo Visit, Defends Governor

A wave of political discourse has erupted following Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s assertion that Peter Obi should have officially informed the Edo State Government prior to his recent visit to the state. Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, reportedly paid a visit to Edo without prior communication with the current administration, a move that has since stirred controversy and public debate.

During an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme, Senator Oshiomhole weighed in on the unfolding situation. Representing Edo North Senatorial District and a former governor of the state, Oshiomhole stated that it is both respectful and procedurally appropriate for political figures to notify sitting governors when visiting their states, especially when such visits involve public or state-owned institutions.

Governor Monday Okpebholo had earlier claimed that Obi’s unscheduled visit was linked to a security breach that allegedly resulted in the deaths of three people. While this allegation remains contentious and has been met with skepticism by several political observers, Oshiomhole insisted that the governor’s concern should not be dismissed outright. According to him, protocols exist not for political gain but to ensure the safety and dignity of all parties involved.

Rather than focusing solely on political rivalries, Oshiomhole underscored the broader importance of protocol and mutual respect among political stakeholders. “If I visit another state and intend to engage with any of their public institutions, I would consider it a matter of decency to notify the relevant authorities,” he said. “These institutions are public assets managed by the sitting governor, and courtesy demands that we acknowledge their role.”

The senator clarified that Obi’s visit was directed toward a government-owned educational institution. For such visits, he explained, there is usually a need for coordination with local authorities to ensure both logistical preparedness and security. The senator emphasized that this does not mean restricting movement or preventing access to any state, but rather upholding a system that maintains order and respect.

While Peter Obi has yet to officially respond to the criticisms or the alleged link between his visit and the tragic security incident, many of his supporters view the governor’s reaction as an attempt at political intimidation. Social media platforms have been flooded with mixed reactions, with some condemning what they see as excessive politicization of a simple visit, and others backing Oshiomhole’s call for respect towards elected officials and their administrative processes.

Oshiomhole acknowledged his personal rapport with Obi, stating that their acquaintance dates back several years. He remarked that his respect for Obi remains intact, although their political ideologies are markedly different. “We’ve had mutual respect for years. He’s a man I’ve known for quite some time, and my opinion of him as a person hasn’t changed. But we have clear political differences, and that’s something I’ve never hidden,” Oshiomhole noted.

He also rejected the notion that his comments were motivated by political rivalry or partisanship. “This is not about Peter Obi as an individual. It’s about how leaders conduct themselves when interacting with each other and with public institutions,” he said. “We must separate politics from basic administrative norms.”

Observers say the issue highlights the growing tension between opposition politicians and state-level authorities, particularly in politically charged environments. As Nigeria moves closer to future elections, the dynamics between key political players like Obi and influential figures such as Oshiomhole will likely continue to shape both public discourse and party alliances.

Some civil society groups have called on the Edo State Government to clarify its security claims and release any evidence linking Obi’s visit to the incident. Others are urging both camps to de-escalate the situation and focus on governance and development rather than personal or partisan battles.

As the controversy unfolds, what remains clear is that Peter Obi’s visit to Edo has reignited national conversations around political etiquette, respect for state authority, and the line between governance and politicking. Whether the incident leads to a broader dialogue on inter-party relations or fades into the background of Nigeria’s complex political landscape remains to be seen.