NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, is facing intense backlash following his controversial warning to former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, not to visit the state without security clearance.
The remark, which many have described as undemocratic and threatening, has drawn condemnation from political groups and civil society actors across the country.
Reacting strongly to the governor’s statement, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) described it as a veiled death threat.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Peter Ameh, and made available to NewsOnline Nigeria, CUPP asserted that Governor Okpebholo’s comment violates Peter Obi’s constitutional right to freedom of movement and expression, guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
“Okpebholo’s recorded remarks, warning Obi not to ‘dare’ enter Edo State without his permission and stating that his security ‘is not guaranteed,’ constitute a veiled death threat against a law-abiding citizen exercising his constitutional rights,” the statement read.
CUPP also called on political leaders, activists, and civil society organisations to condemn what it termed “an unacceptable display of thuggery.” It further noted that Obi’s only “offense” was his goodwill visits to support hospitals, schools, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), questioning why such acts would incite threats from a sitting governor.
Similarly, NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) also slammed Governor Okpebholo, calling his statement “disgraceful and undemocratic.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, emphasized that Peter Obi, as a Nigerian citizen, does not require any permission or clearance to move freely within any part of the country.
“Edo State is a Nigerian state. Obi is a free citizen and does not need the governor’s clearance to visit Nigerians in their own country,” Abdullahi said.
The ADC further criticized the governor’s reaction to Obi’s recent visit and charitable acts in Edo State. Abdullahi argued that true leaders should not feel threatened by the public admiration given to others, especially those who demonstrate purposeful and transparent leadership.
“When a governor panics over courtesy visits and modest donations, it is a clear sign that something is deeply wrong somewhere. What the support for Obi shows is what the people yearn for — purposeful leadership,” the ADC spokesperson stated.
NewsOnline Nigeriahad earlier reported that Governor Okpebholo had issued the warning following Peter Obi’s recent engagements in Edo State, where the former Anambra governor made philanthropic donations. The governor’s remarks have since stirred public outrage, with many urging him to retract the statement and respect the democratic principles that uphold the unity of Nigeria.
