A civil society group called the Coalition for Justice and Equity Forum has asked the United States government to ignore a petition asking for a visa ban on the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo.

The petition, said to be sent by unknown politicians, wants the US to stop Governor Okpebholo and his close family from traveling to America.

In a statement signed by Comrade Peter Okafor (Chairman) and Comrade Musa Ndanusa (Secretary), the group said the petition is politically motivated. They believe it is meant to harm the governor’s good work and achievements in Edo State.

They urged foreign governments, especially the US, to be aware of the political reasons behind such petitions. According to them, allowing these kinds of actions could lead to unnecessary foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.

The group also warned that accepting the petition could create a dangerous example—where political fights in Nigeria start to involve foreign countries and their policies.

Even though they agree that international accountability is important, the coalition said it should not be misused for political reasons.

They added that while they fully support justice and human rights globally, these values should not be turned into tools for attacking political opponents.

The Coalition finally urged the US government to remain fair and follow proper rules when dealing with petitions that come from politically sensitive situations.