The Labour Party Caucus in the Senate has condemned what it described as a dangerous and unconstitutional threat made by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, against Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
In a joint statement signed on Saturday by Senators Victor Umeh, Ireti Kingibe, Ezea Okey, and Tony Nwoye, the caucus called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, to investigate and take seriously the governor’s remarks.
The senators described Okpebholo’s warning that Obi’s security could not be guaranteed in Edo State without his permission as “executive lawlessness and impudence.” They noted that the former governor’s recent visit to the state, during which he donated ₦15 million to a nursing school, should not have triggered such hostility.
“The attention of the Labour Party Senate Caucus has been drawn to the disturbing and shocking statement made by the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, threatening the life and movement of Mr Peter Obi,” the statement read.
They reminded Governor Okpebholo that Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees the right to freedom of movement for every Nigerian citizen, including Peter Obi.
“Mr Obi is entitled to move freely and safely across the country without harassment or intimidation from any public officeholder,” the senators emphasized.
They urged the governor to withdraw the statement and issue an unreserved apology to Obi and Nigerians for breaching constitutional principles.
The caucus further warned that Nigeria must not tolerate executive recklessness and abuse of office, adding that maintaining peace and unity in the country demands accountability from those in power.
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