Edo Governor defends “Security clearance” demand for Peter Obi amidst outcry

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, is facing fierce criticism from various quarters, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the “Obidient Movement,” following his recent remarks that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, must obtain “security clearance” before visiting Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo‘s initial statement, made at a rally on Friday, had sparked controversy with critics interpreting it as a direct threat to Obi’s life and a dangerous precedent for democratic norms.

Femi Falana has urged Peter Obi to consider legal action, labeling the governor’s statement an “illegal threat,” while Dr. Yunusa Tanko of the ADC and Obidient Movement accused Okpebholo of intimidation and spreading falsehoods.

In a swift defense, the Edo State government, through a statement by Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua, insisted that the governor’s comments were “misinterpreted” and merely a call for adherence to security protocols.

The statement clarified that Governor Okpebholo emphasized the need for “high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.”

Itua further asserted that the governor, as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, bears the constitutional responsibility to ensure the safety of all, stressing that ignoring such protocols creates “serious security vulnerabilities.”

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He linked the governor’s position to the rising insecurity, including attacks and abductions of religious leaders in the state, and advised caution regarding public donations to institutions without proper security consultation.

The Chief Press Secretary also drew a distinction, stating, “Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.”

He urged critics not to “twist” the governor’s concerns for “political mileage,” emphasizing that the state government would not tolerate politically motivated activities that endanger lives.

“We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit,” the statement concluded.

Earlier on Sunday, Falana had strongly condemned Okpebholo’s remarks, citing Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantee the fundamental right to life.

He warned that if the governor failed to withdraw the “illegal threat,” Obi should seek enforcement of his fundamental rights in the Federal High Court in Benin.

This incident highlights the ongoing tension surrounding political figures’ movements and the interpretation of security protocols in Nigeria, particularly as the country approaches future election cycles.