The Labour Party (LP) senators in Nigeria’s National Assembly have demanded an immediate apology from Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, following his controversial remarks about restricting the movement of LP’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi. In a joint statement on Saturday, the lawmakers accused the governor of "abuse of power and reckless executive conduct."
The dispute arose after Okpebholo, during a public address on Friday, cautioned Obi against visiting Edo State without obtaining prior security approval from him. The governor claimed that Obi’s last visit resulted in unrest, alleging, “The man who claims he has nothing came here and distributed N15 million. Where did he get such money? After he left, three people died. That’s why he must not return without my clearance.”
The LP senators strongly rejected the governor’s statement, referencing Section 41(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which ensures citizens' right to free movement. “Peter Obi is a Nigerian entitled to move freely without intimidation from any public official,” their statement read. They called on Okpebholo to withdraw his comments and apologize for disregarding constitutional rights.
Additionally, the lawmakers urged security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police and the Director-General of the DSS, to monitor the situation, stressing that Obi, as a key advocate for democracy, deserves full protection. “Nigeria cannot tolerate such abuse of office if we are to maintain peace and unity,” they added.
The statement has fueled public discourse, with the LP senators emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional freedoms and national cohesion.
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