A chieftain of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, Akin Fapohunda, has criticised Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State, accusing him of operating under the political influence of former governor Adams Oshiomhole.
Fapohunda also advised former presidential candidate Peter Obi to take his personal security seriously amid what he described as rising political tension in the country.
The Afenifere chieftain, who serves as the group’s Director of Research, made the remarks during an interview on Symfoni TV released on Monday.
Criticism of Edo Governor
During the interview, Fapohunda questioned the leadership style of Governor Okpebholo, suggesting that his political decisions appear to reflect the influence of Oshiomhole, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress and former governor of Edo State.
According to him, the situation resembles past political dynamics in Oyo State, where influential political figures were believed to wield strong control over elected officials.
“The man was put there and catapulted by Adams Oshiomhole, and he’s doing his bidding,” Fapohunda said during the interview.
He compared the situation to the era of the late Lamidi Adedibu, a powerful political figure once known for his influence in Oyo State politics.
Warning to Peter Obi
Fapohunda also used the interview to caution Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, to be mindful of his safety while participating in political engagements across the country.
He urged Obi to remain vigilant, warning that the current political climate could expose high-profile figures to potential risks.
Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, has remained an active voice in Nigeria’s political discourse since the election.
Fapohunda’s remarks have since stirred discussions among political observers, with analysts noting that tensions among political actors often intensify as the country gradually moves toward future electoral cycles.
