Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has doubled down on his controversial remarks regarding Peter Obi, mocking critics who condemned his recent statements about the former Anambra governor and 2023 presidential candidate.

Speaking to a large gathering of Edo residents on Tuesday, Governor Okpebholo appeared unfazed by the backlash, questioning why Obi's supporters were upset over what he described as simple advice.

"Just one word, and everybody was crying. I simply said, 'Don't come to Edo without telling me,'" the governor stated, addressing the controversy that has dominated political discussions in recent days.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governor had previously warned that Obi would be responsible for whatever happens to him if he enters Edo State without permission, a statement that drew widespread criticism from opposition figures and political commentators.

Okpebholo further taunted his critics by referencing Obi's popular "no shishi" campaign slogan: "I don't know which one is paining them. Is it because I said they don't have shishi? Didn't they say they don't have shishi, so why are they crying?"

The governor's remarks have intensified the political tension between his administration and supporters of the former presidential candidate. Despite the criticism, Okpebholo maintains that his comment was merely advice and not a threat.

This controversy has attracted reactions from prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who warned that a threat against Peter Obi is a threat against all opposition figures. Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, however, has publicly supported Okpebholo's position.

The situation has escalated to the point where some groups have reportedly petitioned the US Embassy to impose visa restrictions on Governor Okpebholo and his family members over the controversial statements.

As the 2027 presidential election approaches, political observers note that this incident highlights the growing tensions in Nigeria's political landscape, particularly regarding opposition movements and their activities across different states.

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