A wave of political discourse has trailed the recent commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service. Still, beyond the buzz, it was the firm words from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that set tongues wagging.
Standing beside the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Wike delivered a fiery endorsement of the governor’s recent statement regarding security protocols for high-profile visitors, including none other than former Governor Peter Obi.
At the heart of the matter: Governor Okpebholo had advised Obi to inform the Edo State Government before entering the state. His reason? Security, not politics. But as expected in Nigeria’s highly charged political atmosphere, reactions were swift, polarized, and at times, emotional.
“It’s Not Politics, It’s Protection” — Wike Declares
Wike, known for his outspoken style, reminded everyone of a simple truth many choose to ignore: protocol saves lives.
“When I was governor, Peter Obi informed me before visiting Rivers State. That’s the way it should be. It’s not about party lines; it’s about responsibility,” Wike said emphatically. “A state governor is the chief security officer. If something goes wrong while a public figure is visiting, the governor is held accountable.”
He didn’t stop there. Wike took subtle jabs at what he called “political showmanship,” referring to recent optics where some politicians serve food in markets and pledge to fly commercial flights if elected president.
“This is not humility; it’s performance. And Nigerians fall for it,” he said, shaking his head. “True leadership is about building systems that work, not about creating moments that trend.”
Governor Okpebholo: “My Job Is to Protect Lives.”
Governor Okpebholo clarified that his comment about Peter Obi was not a threat but a responsible advisory rooted in experience. He recalled a tragic incident where one of his aides was shot dead during an uncoordinated public engagement at Benin Airport in a previous administration.
“I’ve seen firsthand what can happen when high-profile visits are unannounced. All I said was: let me know if you’re coming, so I can ensure your safety. Is that too much to ask?” he questioned.
He went further to reassure critics that he remains committed to peace, development, and democratic freedom but would not compromise the safety of the people of Edo State or visiting dignitaries.
Edo’s Transport Gamechanger: The New Edo Line
Away from politics, the newly launched New Edo Line Transport Service is making waves for all the right reasons. Revived from years of dormancy, the modern transit system is equipped with a fleet of new buses, state-of-the-art terminals, and professional staff.
The initiative is designed to reduce transportation costs for market traders, students, and civil servants, while also addressing road insecurity. With the Edo Line now offering predictable, monitored transport, commuters can board buses knowing their routes and drivers are documented.
“This is not a promise; this is performance,” Wike noted while commending the project. “You don’t see this every day. This is practical leadership, not wishful campaign talk.”
A Show of Strength and Support
The commissioning event drew a crowd of high-profile personalities: political leaders, former deputy governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, youth groups, and transport stakeholders. One message was clear: Edo is making a bold statement about development under Governor Okpebholo’s watch.
In a powerful moment, Okpebholo also pledged that Edo State would deliver 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 elections, signaling his deep political alignment and mobilization strength.
Commissioner Speaks: “Obidients Are Twisting the Message”
Adding his voice, the Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s statement was purely a security protocol, not a political attack.
“When the Governor visits other states, he notifies the host. It’s standard practice,” he said. “No one is saying Peter Obi can’t visit Edo. We’re saying let’s plan it together. Let’s protect the people and prevent anything that could be hijacked or misinterpreted.”
He cautioned political supporters, especially those from the “Obidient” movement, to stop misrepresenting what he described as “common sense governance.”
What This Really Means
This situation isn’t just about Peter Obi or Governor Okpebholo. It speaks to a larger conversation in Nigeria: Should protocol be obeyed regardless of political status? Are leaders who demand order being authoritarian—or simply responsible?
As politics ahead of 2027 begins to sizzle, one thing is clear: Edo State is asserting itself as not just a political battleground, but a model for forward-thinking governance.
Now It’s Your Turn
Do you think the Governor’s request was fair and wise, or was it a veiled political shot?
Should presidential hopefuls like Peter Obi always notify state leaders before visiting?
Join the conversation below. Your opinion matters. Let’s talk protocol, politics, and Nigeria’s path forward.
