Labour Party Lawmakers Slams Edo Governor Over Warning to Peter Obi

Lawmakers from the Labour Party in the House of Representatives have condemned a warning issued by Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State against the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, saying the remarks threaten democratic principles and national unity.

The controversy started after Governor Okpebholo, while speaking at a public event on July 18, warned that Obi should not enter Edo without prior permission and security clearance. He linked Obi’s past visit to an alleged incident where three people were killed, questioning the source of funds Obi donated during that visit.

In response, the Labour Party Caucus, led by Afam Ogene, issued a strong statement on Saturday rejecting the governor’s comments. The group said the statement amounted to an open threat to Obi’s safety and urged President Bola Tinubu to call the governor to order. They described the remarks as reckless and unworthy of a person holding such a high office.

The lawmakers insisted that Peter Obi, like every Nigerian, has the legal right to visit any part of the country without intimidation. They argued that no one should be threatened for their political beliefs or for engaging in acts of charity, adding that Obi’s outreach efforts cut across party lines and have always focused on supporting education and social development.

The statement questioned the kind of message such behavior sends to the public, especially young people who look up to leaders for examples of civility and respect for democratic values. The lawmakers warned that inciting speech from those in authority could encourage political violence and undermine peace.

They also recalled that Okpebholo’s remarks were made at the defection event of Marcus Onobun, a federal lawmaker who the governor allegedly threatened earlier with the demolition of his home. The caucus raised concerns about the governor’s use of power, suggesting that political coercion may have played a role in Onobun’s switch to the ruling party.

The lawmakers said it was troubling that a state governor would publicly discuss insecurity and allege deaths without providing evidence. They noted that such behavior reflects poorly on leadership and governance in Nigeria.

The group warned against further attempts to intimidate opposition voices, saying the rising popularity of Peter Obi cannot be silenced through fear. They stressed that protecting all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation, must remain a core duty of government.

As political tensions rise in the lead-up to future elections, the Labour Party caucus called on Nigerians to reject any form of intimidation and hold leaders accountable to the principles of democracy, justice, and peace.