The Obidient Movement has spoken, and this time they’re not mincing words. In what many see as a sharp and necessary response to recent comments made by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, the group has firmly stated that Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, does not need permission to visit any part of Nigeria – including Edo State.
This reaction came after a disturbing video surfaced showing Governor Okpebholo issuing what appeared to be a direct threat to Mr. Obi’s safety. The governor reportedly claimed that Obi should not enter Edo State without informing him, warning that his security would not be guaranteed otherwise.
The comments were not taken lightly by the Obidient Movement. Speaking through spokesperson Nana Kazaure, the movement described the governor’s remarks as unconstitutional, irresponsible, and deeply dangerous.
According to Kazaure, “We wish to alert Nigerians and the international community that these threats should not be dismissed lightly. Should anything untoward happen to His Excellency Peter Obi, Nigerians should know where to look.”
It’s not the first time such a threat has come from an APC governor. In fact, the Obidient Movement drew a parallel between this incident and an earlier one involving Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who reportedly made similar threats about Obi visiting his state.
Also Read: Okpebholo Hits Back at Edo PDP, Affirms His Support for Tinubu’s Administration
The Constitution is Clear: Nigerians Have the Right to Move Freely
One of the key points raised in the statement by the Obidient Movement is the legal and constitutional basis for their pushback. Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to move freely throughout the country.
So, when Governor Okpebholo says Peter Obi should ask for permission to enter Edo State, it’s not just impolite, it’s illegal.
What makes the situation even more concerning is the political context. The statement and tone of the governor sound more like political intimidation than a legitimate concern for public order. As Kazaure rightly pointed out, these aren’t just empty words. They’re coming from a sitting governor, who also happens to be the chief security officer of his state. That means his words carry weight and potential consequences.
In the now viral video, Governor Okpebholo said: “The man wey say him no get shishi, I’m sending a direct message to him. There is a new sheriff in town. He cannot enter without telling me. Because his security will never be guaranteed. Whatever happens to him when he is in Edo State, let him take it.”
This type of rhetoric isn’t just reckless; it’s dangerous. It creates an atmosphere where political violence becomes normalised, where political leaders believe they can police who comes and goes in their state like warlords.
Nigerians React
The public outrage has been loud and passionate. Many Nigerians, especially those active on social media, are speaking up against what they see as a deeply troubling development.
@AnkaDede tweeted, “Nigeria is degenerating into a ‘gestapo’ state in plain sight! Let nothing happen to HE Peter Obi, the hope of millions of Nigerians.”
Others questioned the priorities of these state leaders. As @Thomphil95 posted, “They only know how to threaten a harmless citizen but they can’t fight terrorists, herdsmen, bandits and other criminal elements to a standstill.”
It’s a valid point. When peaceful politicians and citizens are the ones being publicly threatened by elected officials, but actual criminals roam free, we should all be worried.
@kennethudenkwe1 added perspective by noting that “Edo State is a gateway state to the Southeast. Everyone traveling by road to the East must go through Edo. Is the governor saying that Peter Obi needs to check in first before passing through?”
And for those who still think this is just politics as usual, @emmageorge90 dropped a sobering reminder: “This is beyond politics. Igbos are being profiled. What’s happening now is even more dangerous than how they started the propaganda that caused the civil war.”
Obidient Movement’s response To Okpebholo: This Is A Pattern, Not a One-Off
This isn’t the first time Peter Obi has faced such hostility from APC-led states. That’s why the Obidient Movement isn’t brushing it aside. They believe a pattern is forming, one where state actors use veiled threats to limit Obi’s reach and influence.
@kulunaija chimed in, saying, “Nigerians are now convinced that APC is using insecurity as a political tool. All the people affected by insecurity since Tinubu came to power should remember this come election time.”
The anger isn’t just about Obi. It’s about what he represents a new wave of leadership that challenges the status quo. For millions of Nigerians, Obi remains a symbol of hope, accountability, and good governance. So any attack on him is seen not just as political theatre, but as a threat to the collective dream of a better Nigeria.
What Next?
This moment could be a turning point. The outcry is growing louder, and the lines are being drawn clearly. Either we uphold our constitution and protect the rights of all citizens, or we allow intimidation and fear to rule our politics.
As @mikiukachi wisely said, “No one should wait for something bad to happen to Peter Obi before we act. Now is the time to legally respond to this dangerous trend. Don’t wait till it’s too late.”
Conclusion: Where Do You Stand?
This isn’t just about Peter Obi. It’s about what kind of country we want to live in. Do we believe in freedom of movement, rule of law, and respect for all citizens regardless of political views? Or do we stand by while political leaders intimidate opponents like kings guarding their territory?
The obidient movement’s response to Okpebholo is not just for Obi, but for every Nigerian who still believes in a country where freedom, respect, and safety should never depend on who you vote for.
Now, over to you: What do you think about the Governor’s statement? Do you feel safe expressing your political views? Is Nigeria still a democracy if politicians can threaten citizens without consequence?
Let’s hear your voice. Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on social media. This conversation is too important to ignore.
