The Obidient Movement has strongly condemned a viral video in which the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, is allegedly seen warning Mr. Peter Obi not to return to the state without prior notice, an utterance the group described as both alarming and unconstitutional.
In a statement signed by its Director of Strategic Communications, Nana Kazaure, the movement expressed serious concern over the governor’s comments, which it believes pose a direct threat to the safety of the former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate.
Kazaure stated, “It is deeply troubling that a sitting governor, who has sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution, would resort to such inflammatory and reckless language.”
She cited Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to move freely and reside in any part of the country. “Any attempt to restrict that right, especially through threats of violence or intimidation, is not only unlawful but dangerous to national unity,” she added.
The statement also referenced a similar incident involving the Governor of Benue State, who reportedly made comparable threats against Mr. Obi during a humanitarian visit. In both instances, Obi was said to be carrying out charitable missions aimed at supporting communities allegedly underserved by their respective state governments.
“These recurring threats reflect a disturbing pattern of intolerance and political insecurity,” Kazaure said. “Let it be known: if any harm comes to Mr. Peter Obi, Nigerians will know exactly where responsibility lies. Governors are the Chief Security Officers of their states, and their words carry serious implications.”
The group urged civil society organizations, democratic institutions, and the international community to speak out against what it described as a “dangerous descent into political hostility.”
Kazaure concluded, “No politician, regardless of position or power, should weaponize public office or promote fear and division through inflammatory rhetoric. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and democracy thrives on tolerance, respect, and the rule of law.”
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