Nigeria’s South-South Gov Okpebholo, did not issue threat to ex Presidential candidate Obi – Health worker says

Nigeria

A Nigerian public health physician based in the county’s capital city, Dr Iboro Etukumana , has stressed that Governor Okpebholo Monday of Edo State south-south Nigeria, is fully committed to governance and the development of the State, saying that the Governor did not issue threat to one of the country’s popular 2023 Presidential candidate, Mr, Peter Obi.

According to him: “Governor Monday Okpebholo’s warning to the former Labour Party’s Presidential candidate to get security clearance before coming to the state, should not be misconstrued as a threat”.

He also backed the position of Okpebholo’s warning, lamenting that the Governor’s statement was given various misinterpretations.

The doctor added that the politics of violence is alien to the people of Edo South-South people because they are believers of the rule of law, maintaining that even in the face of political provocation, unfounded allegations and outright disregard to statutory laws by unruly political actors, the people and the Governor did not resort to political violence.

According to him: “The Edo State Governor is a peaceful and law abiding personality, who is focused on transforming the State.

“The misinterpretations surrounding the recent remarks made by the Governor regarding the visit of Peter Obi to the state is unfortunate.

“It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi, but rather emphasised the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the government before embarking on any public engagements within the state”.

“The Governor is committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State for all. His administration is working tirelessly to address the insecurity situation he inherited.

“He is determined to improve the lives of citizens through various initiatives, including strengthening security, promoting inclusiveness, and fostering economic development”.

“He has embarked on the upgrade of State-owned health facilities to enhance service delivery”, he said.

The doctor also added that in order to make life more meaningful for the people of the State, the Governor has provided jobs to boost the economy, and has made giant strides in infrastructural development.

“Some of the milestones include the award of contract and commencement of construction of a flyover bridge at Ramat Park, Benin City; procurement of Payloaders, trucks and compressors for the Edo State Waste Management Agency to enhance service delivery; and, the passage and implementation of the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission Law which empowers the State to generate, transmit and distribute power. The gains of these actions are very well obvious.

“I call on the Governor not to be distracted but continue to be focused on the transformation of the state ,” Etukumana said.