Falana Demands Retraction of Threat Against Peter Obi by Edo Governor

In a rising political storm, renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has strongly criticized Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over his recent remarks threatening the former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The incident, which has stirred national controversy, stems from a public statement made by the Governor warning that Obi must not enter Edo State without obtaining security clearance, citing violence and fatalities from the politician’s previous visit.

Governor Okpebholo’s comments, made during a public event last Friday, have ignited widespread condemnation from legal experts, political commentators, and civil society groups. Accusing Obi of inciting violence during a past visit, the Governor claimed, “That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped N15 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.”

These comments have now attracted the legal rebuke of Falana, who argues that the threat violates constitutional rights and poses serious concerns for political freedom and the rule of law in Nigeria.

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Constitutional Rights and the Limits of Power

In a firm statement released on Sunday, Falana denounced the Governor’s utterances, labeling them a blatant breach of the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights conventions. According to him, “The threat to the life of Mr. Peter Obi issued by the ‘new sheriff in town’ in Edo State constitutes a violation of Section 33 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, and Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

Section 33 of the Constitution guarantees the right to life of every Nigerian citizen, a principle that, Falana argues, Governor Okpebholo has recklessly disregarded. The legal luminary also cited Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, which affirms that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.” He emphasized that no Nigerian governor has the legal authority to bar any citizen from entering a state on the grounds of unfounded accusations.

Falana further demanded that the Governor publicly retract his statement, apologize to Peter Obi, and provide assurances of the latter’s safety within Edo State. “In view of the rule of law and the principles of democracy, it is unacceptable for an elected official to threaten another citizen with such hostility,” Falana said.

A Call for Legal Action and Urgency

Should the Governor fail to issue an apology and withdraw the threat, Falana urged Peter Obi to take the matter to court without delay. He advised the former presidential candidate to file an application at the Federal High Court, Benin Judicial Division, to enforce his fundamental right to life under Nigerian law.

“Mr. Obi should act with utmost urgency in view of the prevalence of mob justice and other forms of extrajudicial killings in the country,” Falana stated, warning that silence or inaction could endanger not only Obi but the political process itself.

The veteran lawyer’s stance reflects growing concern over political intolerance and the potential for escalating violence in Nigeria’s democratic landscape. As tensions rise between rival political factions, Falana’s intervention serves as a timely reminder of the need to uphold civil liberties and democratic rights, regardless of political affiliation.

Political Fallout and Broader Implications

This development is not occurring in isolation. It comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity as the nation inches closer to the 2027 general elections. Governor Okpebholo, who recently assumed office in Edo State, appears to be staking his influence in regional politics. However, analysts say his approach could undermine democratic cohesion and provoke backlash among the electorate.

Peter Obi, who garnered significant youth and urban support during the 2023 elections under the Labour Party platform, remains a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s evolving political space. Any perceived persecution or threat against him is likely to trigger nationwide attention, especially from his loyal support base known as the “Obidients.”

Legal experts warn that the Governor’s remarks may also encourage a dangerous precedent if not swiftly addressed. “Today it is Peter Obi; tomorrow it could be any Nigerian. The Constitution does not permit selective citizenship or geographical segregation,” a political analyst observed.

The Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies have yet to make any official comment on the matter. However, civil society groups and opposition parties are beginning to mount pressure for institutional accountability and justice.

In the coming days, how Governor Okpebholo responds to Falana’s demands may well define not only his governorship but also the broader political climate in Edo State and beyond.