Edo Governor Sparks Outrage Over Security Threats to Peter Obi’s Visit

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has stirred a storm of controversy following his remarks that the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, must obtain security clearance before entering the state. The comment, which has been widely condemned as unconstitutional and inflammatory, was made on Friday during a political event in Benin, the state capital.

The governor’s warning came in the wake of Obi’s recent visit to Benin on July 7, where the former Anambra State governor donated ₦15 million to the St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for the completion of some infrastructure projects.

However, rather than welcoming the philanthropic gesture, Governor Okpebholo expressed disapproval and linked the visit to a resurgence of violence in the state, alleging that three people were killed shortly after Obi’s departure.

“That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from?” Okpebholo questioned. “After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance.”

Obidient Movement Fires Back: Cites Constitutional Breach

The statement drew swift backlash from Obi’s supporters and rights advocates. The Obidient Movement, a nationwide coalition backing Peter Obi’s political ideals, described the governor’s remarks as “a threat to national unity and constitutional order.”

In a strongly worded statement, the group’s Director of Strategic Communications, Nana Kazaure, cited Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every Nigerian the freedom of movement and residence within the country.

“It is disturbing and constitutionally indefensible for Governor Okpebholo to threaten or attempt to restrict this fundamental right,” the statement read.

The group noted that Obi’s visit was a humanitarian one, devoid of political campaigning or partisan rhetoric. They questioned the logic behind linking the visit to acts of violence, adding that such accusations are baseless and potentially dangerous.

A Pattern of Intimidation?

The Obidient Movement also recalled a similar incident in Benue State, where Governor Hyacinth Alia had previously issued a veiled threat over Obi’s visit, again citing security concerns. The group alleged that these repeated warnings form part of a broader pattern of political intolerance aimed at silencing opposition figures through intimidation.

“In both instances, Peter Obi was on missions of goodwill and charity, offering humanitarian support to citizens who have been neglected by the very governors and governments now issuing these threats,” Kazaure said.

The group also warned of the consequences of such political rhetoric, urging the international community to take note. “If anything should happen to Mr. Obi, Nigerians should know where to look,” the statement added.

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Governor Okpebholo Declares Political Dominance

Governor Okpebholo made the controversial statement during a defection ceremony for Marcus Onobun, the last opposition federal lawmaker in the state, who moved from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The event marked a symbolic victory for the APC in Edo, with the governor boasting that the PDP has been politically “buried” in the state.

“We are not lobbying anyone to join the APC; they are coming because they see the results of our governance,” Okpebholo said. “In 2027, 2.5 million votes from Edo are guaranteed for President Bola Tinubu. Last week, we finally buried the PDP in Edo State.”

His remarks underscored the growing political tension in Edo ahead of the 2027 general elections, as well as the governor’s determination to consolidate power.

National Outcry: Call for Restraint and Dialogue

However, critics argue that politicizing the constitutional right of movement and linking it to partisan interests sets a dangerous precedent. Legal scholars and civic groups have joined the Obidient Movement in calling for Governor Okpebholo to retract his statement and reaffirm his commitment to constitutional principles.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us,” the Obidient Movement’s statement concluded. “No individual, no matter how highly placed, should attempt to fan the embers of division or incite violence with careless, unlawful rhetoric.”

As the political landscape continues to heat up ahead of 2027, the tension between security, free movement, and political rivalry is expected to remain a critical issue — one that observers hope will be resolved with respect for law and democratic norms.