By: Daure David
A political storm has erupted in Edo State following a controversial statement made by Governor Monday Okpebholo, warning former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, not to enter the state without prior “security clearance.” The remarks, captured in a viral video and widely reported across reputable media platforms, have sparked outrage from civil society groups, legal experts, and political figures nationwide.
Loading ...Governor Okpebholo, speaking at a political rally in Uromi, alleged that Mr. Obi’s recent visit to Benin City during which he donated ₦15 million to St. Philomena College of Nursing Sciences coincided with unrest that led to the deaths of three individuals. “There’s a new sheriff in town. He cannot just come into Edo without informing me. His security will not be guaranteed,” the governor declared.
Mr. Obi’s donation was part of his ongoing philanthropic efforts to support education and healthcare across Nigeria. The ₦15 million contribution was aimed at enhancing infrastructure and training capacity at the nursing college. His visit was unannounced, consistent with his practice of avoiding fanfare and focusing on service.
The governor’s remarks came on the eve of Mr. Obi’s 64th birthday, which was marked nationwide by members of the Obidient Movement through a “Day of Service.” Supporters engaged in community outreach, medical missions, and donations to orphanages and correctional facilities in honour of Obi’s values of compassion and people-first leadership.
Legal experts have condemned the governor’s statement as unconstitutional. Kunle Edun, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, emphasized that every Nigerian citizen has the right to move freely across the country under Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution. Human rights lawyer Chidi Odinkalu described the warning as “dangerous and undemocratic,” while the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) labeled it a “veiled death threat”.
In a strongly worded statement, Olumide Akpata, Labour Party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Edo, criticized the governor’s comments as “deeply troubling” and “ill-judged.” He praised Mr. Obi’s leadership and generosity, asserting that Obi remains welcome in Edo State regardless of political threats.
As political tensions simmer ahead of the 2027 general elections, the incident has reignited debates on freedom of movement, political tolerance, and the role of state governors in safeguarding democratic norms. While Governor Okpebholo has yet to retract his statement, calls for accountability and constitutional adherence continue to grow.
