The Labour Party (LP) Senate Caucus has condemned in strong terms what it described as a reckless and unconstitutional threat by the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, against the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
The backlash follows reports that Governor Okpebholo declared Mr. Obi’s security could no longer be assured if he visited Edo State again without prior clearance from the state government. This threat appears to be a reaction to Mr. Obi’s recent visit to the state, where he donated ₦15 million to a nursing school without involving the state authorities.
In a joint statement signed by Senators Dr. Victor Umeh, Ireti Kingibe, Ezea Okey, and Dr. Tony Nwoye, the LP Senate Caucus described the Governor’s remarks as “deeply troubling, undemocratic, and a direct affront to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Citing Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the lawmakers reaffirmed that every Nigerian citizen, including Mr. Obi, has the fundamental right to move freely across the country, adding that “no governor, no matter how highly placed, has the power to restrict this right.”
“Peter Obi is a national figure whose engagements across Nigeria are anchored in unity, compassion, and development. His goodwill gesture in Edo should be celebrated—not met with threats,” the statement said.
The Caucus demanded that Governor Okpebholo immediately withdraw his remarks and issue a public apology to Mr. Obi and Nigerians for undermining the spirit of democracy, peace, and national unity.
The lawmakers further called on the Inspector General of Police and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to take the threat seriously, launch a full investigation, and ensure that Mr. Obi’s safety—and that of every Nigerian—is upheld at all times.
“Nigeria cannot afford to slip into lawlessness where executive arrogance tramples on the rights of citizens. We must all rise to defend our democracy, protect our freedoms, and preserve the peace and unity of our nation,” the statement concluded.