The Coalition of United Political Parties has strongly condemned Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s warning to former presidential candidate Peter Obi regarding visits to the state, describing the governor’s remarks as constituting a death threat.
The controversy erupted after Governor Okpebholo warned Obi against visiting Edo State without obtaining proper security clearance, prompting sharp criticism from the opposition coalition.
In a statement issued by CUPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Peter Ameh, the coalition characterized the governor’s directive as a dangerous breach of constitutional rights and democratic principles.
“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 declared.
Ameh argued that the governor’s comments demonstrate a fundamental lack of understanding of Nigeria’s Constitution, which guarantees citizens’ freedom of movement throughout the country. The CUPP official emphasized that no state governor has the authority to restrict the movement of law-abiding citizens within Nigeria’s borders.
The coalition questioned the governor’s motives, particularly given Obi’s humanitarian activities across the nation. “His only offense is traveling across the country to support hospitals, schools, nurses, and IDPs at their points of need. Should a governor fear acts of charity?” the statement asked.
CUPP appealed to political leaders, civil society organizations, and activists to condemn what it termed an unacceptable display of thuggery that threatens Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
The statement further criticized Governor Okpebholo’s approach to governance, declaring: “Governor Monday Okpebholo’s threat against Peter Obi is a disgraceful act that strikes at the heart of Nigeria’s democracy. It is a direct assault on the constitutional rights to freedom of movement, expression, and association, and it reflects a dangerous arrogance that has no place in governance.”
The coalition used the incident to call for broader protection of constitutional rights, stating: “This incident must serve as a wake-up call for Nigerians to defend their constitutional protections and demand accountability from those in power.”
CUPP concluded by emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law regardless of political position. “The rule of law must prevail, and no individual, no matter their position, should be allowed to trample on the rights of citizens. Edo State and Nigeria deserve better than this shameful display of leadership,” the statement concluded.
