The Edo State government has explained that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s warning that Peter Obi should not visit the state without his knowledge was not an attack on the former Labour Party presidential candidate.

Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, explained that the governor made the comment in line with official protocol.

The governor had made the remark while receiving defectors on Friday.

Okpebholo’s remark was widely condemned by Nigerians who noted that the governor was ignorant of the constitution.

Responding, Ituah insisted that Okpebholo respects Obi and all Nigerians.

Parts of a statement issued by the Edo governor’s spokesman read: “Where misunderstandings arise, it is the responsibility of leaders to clarify, not to condemn. And that is what this moment calls for: clarity.

“The governor’s comment was not an attack. It was a statement borne out of official protocol, not personal bias.

“Let this moment not divide us but deepen our resolve for understanding.

“Let it remind us that even in disagreement, we must preserve our common humanity.”