A civil society group called Global Rights has asked Governor Monday Okpebholo to apologise publicly to Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate. The group also wants him to take back a statement they say is both illegal and dangerous.
Governor Okpebholo had said on Friday, July 18, 2025, that Peter Obi must get his “clearance” before entering Edo State. Global Rights described this as a shocking and unconstitutional comment that should not come from someone in a leadership position.
In a statement signed by the group’s Executive Director, Abiodun Baiyewu, Global Rights reminded the Governor that no leader in Nigeria has the right to stop a citizen from moving freely within the country.
The group pointed out that Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to travel and live in any part of the country. They said Obi, like any Nigerian, is protected under this law and does not need permission from a Governor to visit any state.
They also raised concern about the threat hidden in the Governor’s words. According to them, the remark sounds like Peter Obi and his supporters could be in danger if they come to Edo State without approval.
Global Rights said the Governor’s words were irresponsible and warned that if anything happens to Obi, it would be clear where the threat came from.
The group added that Section 92(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 bans political statements that can stir up violence or create problems between ethnic, religious, or regional groups. They believe Okpebholo broke this law and acted like he is above the Constitution.
They called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to condemn the Governor’s statement and tell him to withdraw it immediately.
In addition, they asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to launch a fair investigation into the matter. They said political leaders must not be allowed to make reckless comments without consequences.
Section 92(1) of the Electoral Act clearly states that campaigns must not involve abusive or insulting language that could hurt ethnic, tribal, or religious feelings.
Global Rights insists that such behaviour from elected officials is dangerous and must be stopped before it leads to violence.
