Civil Society Group, Global Rights, have asked Governor Monday Okpebholo to issue a public apology to former Labour Party, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and withdraw his unconstitutional and inflammatory statement.
Okpebholo had on Friday, July 18, 2025, publicly declared that Obi must obtain “clearance” from him before stepping into Edo State.
But the Rights group says the claims are not only legally absurd but also capable of inciting violence and are unbecoming of a political figure, whose behaviour should be above board.
A statement by the group, signed by its Executive Director, Abiodun Baiyewu, noted that no Governor has the constitutional authority to restrict the movement of a Nigerian citizen within the country.
The statement said, ‘‘Obi, like any Nigerian, is protected by Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to move freely throughout Nigeria and reside in any part thereof.’’
The group pointed out the veiled threat of violence implied in the Governor’s remarks, suggesting that Obi may face harm for visiting Edo State without the Governor’s blessing.
‘‘It is deeply troubling and irresponsible. If any harm were to come to Mr Obi or his supporters, the source of the threat would be clear, the group warned.
Referring to Section 92(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which prohibits political speech that incites violence or injury to ethnic, religious or regional sentiments, Global Rights said, ‘‘Senator Okpebholo’s statement not only disrespects the Constitution, but also attempts to place him above the constitution.’’
The group also demands that the Governor’s political party, the All Progressives Congress, and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, publicly condemn his remarks and call on him to order.
It called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to launch a fair and transparent investigation into the comments, under Section 92(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which prohibits political speech that incites violence or injury to ethnic, religious or regional sentiments.
‘‘Section 92(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 states, “A political campaign or slogan shall not be tainted with abusive language directly or indirectly likely to injure religious, ethnic, tribal or sectional feelings.”
Apologise to Peter Obi, withdraw your comments – Global Rights to Okpebholo
