The Olodo of Edo: Gov Okpebholo Under Fire Over Ban On Peter Obi As Activists Digs Up His Failed WAEC Certificate, Adult Education Form (pics)
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State is facing intense criticism and nationwide ridicule following his recent threat to bar Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, from entering the state without “security clearance.” What began as a political outburst has spiraled into a full-blown scandal, after documents allegedly exposing the governor’s poor academic history surfaced online—compounded by a viral adult education enrolment form.
The governor, while receiving defecting federal lawmaker Marcus Onobun into the All Progressives Congress (APC) last Friday, claimed that Peter Obi’s July 7 visit to Benin City coincided with a resurgence of violence in the state. Obi, during that visit, donated ₦15 million to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for the completion of key projects. Okpebholo questioned the source of the funds and warned: “That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance.”
The governor’s remarks drew immediate condemnation from civic groups, political leaders, and concerned citizens. As the backlash escalated, a WAEC certificate dated June 2008 emerged online, revealing that Okpebholo failed five of his six registered subjects—including English Language (D7), Economics (E8), and Government (D7). Social commentator Ugo Egbujo, who posted the certificate on Facebook, mocked the governor, writing: “The Olodo of Edo. He was still failing WAEC in 2008? But how wouldn’t he? He thinks like a hoodlum.”
Making matters worse, a separate document—a filled Ladewin Adult Education form dated June 2024—also appeared on social media, allegedly showing Okpebholo enrolling for adult education in Abuja. The form lists English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Civic Education among the subjects he intends to study, and bears his name, photo, and former school: Liberty Comprehensive College, Jos.
The reaction from the public has been scathing. UK-based medical doctor, Obinna Ihemedu, expressed disbelief at the situation: “This is the man that decides the future of Edo State. The man who decides how education will be run in Edo State for 8 years. Na adult education he do and he still no get 2 credits for WAEC. This is an insult to the people.”
