The OBIdient Movement has strongly criticized Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over a viral video in which he issued a stern warning to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, cautioning him against entering Edo State without prior notification.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by its Director of Strategic Communications, Nana Kazaure, the movement described the governor’s comments as “unconstitutional” and a violation of Obi’s fundamental rights. It referenced Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees every Nigerian the right to move freely and reside anywhere in the country.
The controversy arose after Governor Okpebholo, in the now widely circulated video, declared that Obi would be held responsible for any consequences that befall him should he visit Edo State without the governor’s consent.
Reacting, the OBIdient Movement condemned the remarks as dangerous and politically intolerant, warning that such rhetoric has no place in a democratic society. “It is disturbing and constitutionally indefensible for Governor Okpebholo to threaten or seek to restrict this fundamental right,” the group stated.
The movement also drew attention to what it described as a “pattern” of hostility toward Obi, citing a previous threat from the Governor of Benue State under similar circumstances. In both instances, Obi was said to be on humanitarian visits aimed at supporting communities.
“If anything happens to His Excellency Peter Obi, Nigerians should know where to look,” the movement warned, emphasizing that the governors involved must be held accountable as chief security officers of their respective states.
The group called on Nigerians and the international community not to dismiss these threats, urging citizens to “speak out against this descent into political intolerance and recklessness.”
The statement concluded by reaffirming that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens, warning against attempts by political actors to incite division or suppress lawful political engagement.