Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has faced widespread condemnation following his recent remarks against former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Speaking at a political rally in Uromi, Governor Okpebholo warned Obi not to enter Edo State without prior approval, stating, “His security will not be guaranteed. Whatever happens to him, he will take it… I am the new sheriff in town.”
The governor’s comments have sparked outrage across Nigeria, with various groups and individuals accusing him of violating Obi’s constitutional rights and threatening national unity. The Obidient Movement, a support group for Obi, described the remarks as “reckless, unlawful, and a threat to national cohesion,” emphasizing that Nigeria’s unity cannot be held hostage by the ego of a few state actors.
Civil society organizations, including ImpactHouse Centre for Development Communication, Accountability Lab Nigeria, and Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), have also condemned the governor’s statements, labeling them as a “veiled death threat” and an assault on Nigeria’s democratic principles. They called for the governor to withdraw the threat and apologize to Nigerians.
In response to the backlash, Governor Okpebholo clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted and intended to emphasize official protocol. His Chief Press Secretary stated that Edo State remains open and welcoming to all Nigerians, irrespective of political alignment, ethnicity, or religious belief.
Despite the clarification, the controversy continues to unfold, with political analysts and citizens alike debating the implications of the governor’s statements on Nigeria’s democratic norms and the freedom of movement guaranteed by the constitution.
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